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Parents consider relationship and sexuality education for their children highly important, but they do not always find it easy. This is one of the key findings from research conducted by Rutgers and Soa Aids Netherlands. The study was carried out among parents from diverse backgrounds and religions, living in both rural areas and major cities. What are their values and norms? How do they approach relationship and sex education in practice? What kind of support do they expect from schools and their immediate environment? The insights from this study provide a deeper understanding of how parents view relationship and sexuality education.
Parents in the study indicate that they want their children to make well-informed choices about relationships and sexuality in the future and to avoid difficult situations. They sometimes worry because today’s society is different from when they were young. They see that the internet and social media have a significant influence on their children. Parents do not always know exactly what their children are exposed to or who they interact with. They are concerned when their children adopt views from social media influencers, such as stereotypes about masculinity and femininity or certain beauty ideals.
Additionally, parents observe that society is becoming more polarized, leading to less respect for differences, and their children may face harsher social interactions. Finally, some parents notice a cultural shift toward a more reserved or conservative attitude toward sexuality, which they find problematic. On the other hand, some parents see an increasingly progressive culture and also view that as problematic.
About the research
This study by Rutgers and Soa Aids Netherlands consisted of a literature review, additional analyses from the Sexual Health Monitor (2023), and qualitative research through participatory action research. It was conducted among a broad group of parents from different backgrounds and religions, both from rural areas and big cities.
Researchers Marianne Cense, Javier Koole, and Alicia Euwema collaborated with four co-researchers—Charifa Zemouri, Assia Nait Kassi, Chamid Sulchan, and Anne Nales—who are closely connected to the target groups. They were responsible for recruiting participants and conducting interviews. A total of 48 interviews were conducted, and one focus group session was organized with five participants.
Through this page, you can access the full study (Dutch) and the summary (Dutch).