Religious Education Topic
Sexuality, Abstinence, and Abuse
- Read notes
- Flashcards
- Quiz
- Confident
Study focus - 3 things
- Sexuality includes identity, relationships, values, feelings, and responsible choices
- Abstinence means choosing not to have sexual intercourse
- Abuse is harmful and should be reported to a trusted adult or proper authority
Section 1Sexuality
Sexuality is not only about sex. It includes how people understand themselves, show respect, build relationships, set boundaries, and make choices. In RE, the focus is often values, dignity, responsibility, and respect.
Section 2Abstinence
Abstinence means choosing not to have sexual intercourse. Some people choose abstinence because of religion, personal values, health concerns, age, or readiness. The thing to remember is that a choice should be informed and respectful.
Section 3Abuse
Abuse is behaviour that harms, controls, threatens, or exploits another person. It can be physical, emotional, sexual, verbal, or neglect. Watch out: abuse is not the victim's fault.
Section 4Getting help
If abuse happens or is suspected, the safe response is to tell a trusted adult, school counsellor, parent or guardian, teacher, or relevant authority. In Jamaica, students may also be taught to seek help through child protection services or the police in emergencies.
Examples
A friend keeps pressuring someone to do something physical they said no to. What value is being ignored?
Respect for boundaries and consent is being ignored. A respectful relationship listens to 'no'.
A student is being threatened at home and feels unsafe. What should they do?
They should tell a trusted adult or proper authority as soon as it is safe. Abuse should not be kept secret.
Now let's water it
Session runs notes to flashcards to quiz back-to-back.