1980s Young Women Being Taught How To Say NO!

This 1982 sex education film came a time when education began to shift in response to social changes including the rise of second-wave feminism which emphasized personal autonomy and consent, and also related to concerns about teen pregnancy and sexually transmitted infections (STIs). Sex education programs tried to empower young women by emphasizing their right to control their own bodies and make their own choices about sex. These programs often focused on teaching girls how to communicate clearly and assertively, including expressing their feelings and setting boundaries. Some programs, particularly those influenced by conservative or religious values, emphasized abstinence and encouraged girls to say no to premarital sex. Why was this a problem issue in the early 1980s? The sexual revolution of the 1960s and ‘70s had led to more liberal attitudes towards sex but these changes weren’t universally accepted. This period of flux in societal norms left some young people uncertain about how to navigate sexual situations. Comprehensive sex education that included discussions of consent, communication and relationships was not universally available, leading to gaps in understanding. The 1980s saw concern over rising teen pregnancy rates leading to efforts to educate young people about sexual decision-making. Traditional gender roles and expectations made it more difficult for some girls to feel they had the right to say no. Educational efforts sought to counteract this by emphasizing girls’ autonomy and rights. These programs were not without controversy or criticism. Some felt they didn’t go far enough in providing comprehensive sex education while others, particularly more conservative groups, objected to discussing sexual topics with young people at all. Teaching girls how to say no to unwanted sexual intercourse has evolved since the 1980s though challenges still exist. Modern sex education emphasizes the concept of consent, teaching that it should be enthusiastic, voluntary, and continuous. This is a shift from merely teaching girls to say no. Many educational programs now cover a broader range of topics, including healthy relationships, communication skills, mutual respect, and understanding of one’s own body and desires. Movements like #MeToo have brought issues of sexual harassment, assault, and consent to the forefront of public discussion, contributing to a broader societal understanding of these issues. Today not all students have access to comprehensive, consent-based sex education. Some places still emphasize abstinence-only education, which may not provide students with the tools they need to navigate complex sexual situations. Peer pressure and social expectations around sex have not disappeared and can still make it challenging for young people, particularly girls, to navigate sexual situations according to their comfort level and desires. The rise of technology and social media has introduced new complexities into relationships and sexual dynamics, requiring updated approaches to education and support.