Are teens using the web for sex-ed/sexual health info? Should they be? #disparitiesmatter

It almost seemed that Dr. Fulbright was against teens using the web as a resource for sex-ed/sexual health info. But, if you read the article all the way through it seems to highlight the fact that - although a recent study (done by Guttmacher Institute and United Nations Population Division) shows teens are more likely to get sex-ed info from friends, family, doctors or teachers - previous studies on web users build a case for the internet being the ideal arena for sex info exploration. Moreover, the Doc actually cites some useful websites and valid reasons to seek sex-ed/sexual health info (from reputable resources) online.

Recapping Dr. Yvonne K. Fulbright's insights:

“...previous studies have found that web users, in general, see the anonymity and openness offered by the Internet as attractive for finding answers to their questions. Other positive features are that a person can do so with minimal embarrassment and judgment when it comes to one's physical appearance, gender, age, or health status, especially if dealing with private, sensitive issues like sex. Users are further able to explore the information on their own, working at their own pace and without the fears that a more public setting for sexuality information may invite.”

Re-posting sex-ed/sexual health resources here ...just in case you didn’t get to check them out the first time.

What do you think?

Should teens be using the web for sex ed?

HE:EDtweet : Thanks for the follow! Now, SPEAK YOUR MIND!!!

THANK YOU to all those who have sent emails, followed us on twitter (@HEEDblog) and made suggestions! Now all we need are MORE COMMENTS! You know how we feel about the SAVAGE INEQUALITIES throughout America in the areas of education and health (if you don't, please feel free to read more HE:ED). But, that's not the end. You need to have a say! So, what do you think?

How do things you know/have learned about the state of education and health in America make you feel?

If your not American, how does American education/health compare to education/health in your country?

Where do you think we go from here?

What are some worthwhile/effective programs in your area?

Agreed, disagree, whatever, just speak your mind!!!

When's the last time someone asked you what you think and really meant it?

SAY SOMETHING, you've got the mic!!!

HE:EDtweet : Do some kids really feel they'd have to be #SuperRich to make a difference in health and education today?

If you're on twitter it's kinda hard not to notice when a hashtag is trending. It's even harder not to notice when it's trending with a certain group...So, after reading a few #SuperRich posts it seems they're not all about the usual materialistic if "I was rich I'd buy..." stuff. Instead a group of the posts made reference to education, health(care) and quality of life.

It makes you wonder "Do some kids really feel they'd have to be #SuperRich to make a difference in health and education today?"

And after further consideration...depending on where they live and, what their socio-economic situation is the answer could very well be a resounding/turn your radio down, "YES".

What's this mean? Well it could mean that while public schools fail, uneducated minority males end up in jail, single parents work multiple menial jobs to make ends (sometimes) meet and uninsured families don't get better, kids are watching. And these same kids believe that money will solve their problems...

Not to pitch to my own post but, sounds like some of these #SuperRich tweeters may be aware of and experiencing the Great Divergence...

HE:ED Highlight : Define Health Disparities

A fifth-grader recently asked her mother what health disparities were after hearing the words uttered (from someone closer to the register) while in line at the mall. The mother's reply was a little different than the definition given on wikipedia. The girl's mother said "that means poor people can't afford rich people's doctors".

Really?? Is that what it means?

After hearing something like that, any curious person is forced to bring the subject up with any available group to seek feedback....wouldn't you?

Holiday gatherings provide a captive audience so...here's what the captives thought.

An eleven (11) year old girl said she thought it meant " when people from different racial or economic backgrounds receive a different level of health-care then others" An eight year old said "I don't know what it is exactly but, I know it's not fair".
A mother said "it's something I don't want my children to have to think about". A college student said "it means there's still work to be done to live up to the words and ideas of those who came before us".

Pictured above and to the left is Augustus A. White III, Harvard educated Stanford graduate and surgeon. His own thoughts and feelings about health disparities led him to write a book entitled "Seeing Patients: Unconscious Bias in Health Care"

Although the definition of health disparities will continue to vary, hopefully the discussion, literary works and advocacy amongst those that wish to close the gap will become more and more streamlined. There will be those that will acknowledge that the disparities exist and do nothing but, let's hope there are more individuals that act (by comparison).

More info on health disparities:
Office of Minority Health and Health Disparities (OMHD)