Related
Read our latest articles, studies and columns on sexual health and rights.
Today Rutgers has launched a new website where young people aged 16 to 18 can go with questions about flirting, dating, identity, safe sex, fun and relationships. In the Netherlands, young people start having sex later and later – often from the age of 16, most around 18. But it is precisely at that age that education on these topics is no longer provided at Dutch schools.
“By offering reliable information about dating, relationships and sexuality not only at home and at school, but also online, we support young people with the questions they have. This way, we give them the control to learn at a time that suits them and in a way that suits them,” says Luc Lauwers, sexuality education expert at Rutgers.
The health and well-being of young people improve when evidence-based information on their bodies and sexuality is given in a positive way. Young people have questions and will look for answers. In this quest they will at some point encounter potentially harmful (mis)information and images online. Preparing and supporting them to navigate these spaces safely and ensuring that they get the right information is paramount. SEGGSY supports young people in their personal search in the field of dating, relationships and sexuality, about who they are, what influence friends and family have in this and how they deal with expectations from society. The goal is for them to enter into healthy, safe, free and equal (sexual) relationships now and later in life.
Luc: “Young people of this age experiment a lot, but often do not receive the right guidance. They report missing important information. SEGGSY fits well with the perception of this specific age group.”
Why SEGGSY
Young people in the Netherlands rate sexuality education lessons at school with an average of 5.8. They say they mainly get technical information about reproduction, contraception and STIs, while they want to learn more about the fun, personal and social aspects of sexuality. Such as fun, peer pressure and indicating and recognising each other’s desires and boundaries. “It is precisely these topics that teachers and parents also find difficult to discuss with young people,” Luc explains. “While such a broad and positive approach to relationships and sexuality actually also improves condom and contraceptive use and the prevention of STIs and transgressive behaviour.”
Parents, educators and teachers can use SEGGSY as a tool to prepare young people or to supplement information at home or in the classroom.
What young people find on SEGGSY
SEGGSY covers topics such as: the first time, consent, identity and falling in love. On these topics, young people will find useful tips, inspiring videos, podcasts, quizzes and other interactive content. This will inspire them and teach them to form their own opinions, engage in conversation and make informed choices.
The first users of SEGGSY say they are happy with the launch of the new platform. “I noticed that in my social environment there is often a kind of standard anyway when it comes to sex, as if everyone at school is already in a relationship or has had sex. Through SEGGSY, I found out that this is not the case at all,” says one of the new users.
Who is behind SEGGSY
SEGGSY is “powered” by Sense.info the youth platform on sexuality by Rutgers, Soa Aids Netherlands and the Dutch Municipal Health Services.
SEGGSY is developed by young people and developmental psychologists and sexual health and pedagogy experts. With SEGGSY we want to support young people in their personal quest and give them the right inspiration, tips and tools to make responsible and self-aware choices, and to stand up for their own wishes and boundaries and those of others. In doing so, we make an impact! This contributes to our missions for a safe, pleasant and healthy sexual environment for young people.
