Characteristics of Sexual Education Programs in Schools of the province of Santiago, Chile

Abstract

Background: According to Unesco, sexuality education should be based on a culturally relevant and age-appropriate approach, which teaches about sex and interpersonal relationships through the use of scientifically rigorous, realistic and non-judgmental information. In 2013, to comply with Law 20,418 and based on Unesco’s definition, Mineduc designed and imparted the document Guidelines for the Design and Implementation of a Program on Education in Sexuality, Affectivity and Gender, so that all recognized educational establishments by the state implement sexuality education programs (PES). Objective: To analyze the characteristics of sexuality education programs and their implementation according to public policies in municipal secondary education establishments in the province of Santiago. Material and Method: Cross-sectional and analytical study in a population of municipal educational institutions of secondary education in the province of Santiago. The information was collected through a questionnaire applied to those responsible for sex education programs in each establishment. Results: 73 establishments answered and completed a questionnaire. 95% (69) of them reported developing a Sexual Education Program; 62% of the programs were designed by the establishment itself. The duration of these programs varies between 4 to 12 years. The subjects most frequently given were adolescent pregnancy, STI/ HIV, and contraception. The majority of the programs were developed in the hours destined to Advice of Course or Orientation. Conclusions: This study supports the existence of important disparities in sexuality education programs as in their implementation in municipal secondary education establishments in the province of Santiago.