Let’s talk about SEX!: A critical analysis of the level of diversity and inclusivity of sexuality education in Dutch secondary schools by researching the promotion of heteronormative and homonormative frameworks

Abstract

This thesis researches the level of diversity and inclusivity of sexuality education at Dutch secondary schools through critical discourse analysis of the two dominant teaching methods (Nectar and Biologie voor Jou) and the conduction of in-depth interviews with both students and teachers. By elaborating upon the existence of heteronormative and homonormative frameworks within sexuality education, I hope to be able to criticize but also compliment sexuality education at Dutch secondary schools. Some themes explored in this thesis are: the way sexuality education centres around and almost solely focuses on procreation, the problematic definition of ‘official sex’, the promotion of only monogamous relationships and the policing of girls (female bodies) for expressing (sexually) deviant behaviour and finally, the problematic nature of the glorification of scientific objectivity. I believe this research to be of great importance since education is a regulative institution that plays a crucial role in shaping adolescents’ understandings of sexuality. So without further ado: let’s talk about sex!