[The approach of the letterbox: a model of sex education in a traditional society]

Abstract

The present article describes a new approach for imparting sex-education to adolescents in a conservative and orthodox society like India. The initial community resistance to sex education was overcome by conducting a survey on the sex behaviour of adolescents. Contrary to popular belief and notions, the survey proved that some adolescents are sexually active and that they are not adequately equipped to prevent and protect themselves against sexually transmitted diseases, AIDS and unwanted pregnancies. The new model is essentially based on the team/group approach and utilises a group of trained and motivated teachers in schools to impart sex education to a group of students. The students' response to this approach has been heartening and encouraging.