A Thoughtful Discourse on Sexuality Education: A Review ofThe Sexuality Curriculum and Youth Culture

Abstract

The present article reviews Carlson and Roseboro's (2011) The Sexuality Curriculum and Youth Culture. The book analyzes factors that influence the sexuality curriculum within today's heteronormative culture, and it is particularly useful for teachers, school administrators, and educators in training. Overall, this book thoughtfully raises awareness about the influences of heterosexist norms and homophobia within the context of traditional education systems.KEYWORDS Advocacy, book review, heteronormativity, sexuality, youth culture Although many states, municipalities, and institutions in the United States-and more broadly around the world-are taking steps to promote equality for individuals who identify as lesbian, gay, bisexual, transgender, and/or queer (LGBTQ), heteronormative influences, fueled by homophobia, biphobia, and transphobia, continue to oppress youth who violate traditional norms in an attempt to express and discover their true identities. Rather than embrace and support such self-exploration and education, many schools continue to advance a one-size-fits-all model of sexuality education that fails to address the unique needs of LGBTQ youth, while simultaneously exposing this demographic to discrimination and victimization. In response, Carlson and Roseboro's (2011) edited compendium, The Sexuality Curriculum and