Sex education in 1900, 1940 and 1980: an historical sketch.

PIP: The changes in coverage and philosophy of sex education in the U.S. from 1900 to 1980 reflect underlying social changes in life and sexual behavior style. Sex education about 1900 was actually antisex and directed toward discouraging sexual behavior and thoughts. The material was presented in an unemotional factual lecture form, sometimes supplemented with approved printed material. By 1940, there was more widespread support for sex education. With the passing of the days of black and white morality, sex education classes took on another purpose, that of helping to contribute to the longterm sexual adjustment of individuals. Segregated classes were still used for presentation of most of material. By 1980, with the advent of more permissive sexual mores, the emphasis of sex education classes has changed to a recognition of the importance of human sexuality to human fulfillment. Open communication is stressed. Mixed-sex classes are used and student discussion is encouraged. There is greater discussion of contraception.^ieng

The school's role in preventing blindness from glaucoma.

A disease which has blinded 50,000 Americans and threatens to blind an additional estimated one million victims who are unaware that they have the disease warrants serious consideration in the health curriculum. That disease, glaucoma, can be neither prevented nor cured. It results when abnormal fluid dynamics within the eye cause increased pressure. The increased pressure can usually be controlled to prevent blindness from occurring. However, prevention of blindness from glaucoma requires early diagnosis and treatment. Since glaucoma is rarely accompanied by pain or warning signs, the best hope for early diagnosis is with regular eye examinations. Health education is the way to teach people the nature and consequences of glaucoma and the role each individual can play in minimizing his or her chances of becoming blind from the disease.