Can difference make a difference? A critical theory discussion of religion in sexuality education

ABSTRACT

This article conceptualizes religion as a critical theory challenge to sexuality education. Religious views in sexuality education are often perceived as intolerant and incompatible with today’s progressive and modern society. This article engages with the idea that the inclusion of religious viewpoints on sexuality will challenge the efficacy of current sexuality education in Australia and New Zealand school contexts, to create a more contemporary and inclusive learning experience that caters for all students’ sexual needs and lives. Utilizing a critical theory lens, I demonstrate how religion can challenge dominant views of sexuality education, introduce alternative modes of content and delivering, promote critical thinking skills and more egalitarian ways of learning about sexuality. Drawing on data collected from Australian and New Zealand public schools, this article endeavors to reframe current discussions of the relationships between religion and sexuality education.

KEYWORDS:

• Critical theory
• religious education
• sexuality education
• inclusive education
• public schools
• student voice

Acknowledgements

I would like to acknowledge my colleagues involved in the research study and in organizing and conducting the interviews with the students: Professor Mary Lou Rasmussen (also Chief Examiner of the project), Associate Professor Louisa Allen, Dr Kathleen Quinlivan and Dr Clive Aspin.

Disclosure statement

No potential conflict of interest was reported by the author.

Additional information

Funding

This research was supported by an Australian Research Council (ARC) Discovery Program grant (DP110101173). This was the first time the ARC funded research on sexuality and secondary schooling in Australia.