In the age of hook-up's

I keep trying to tell myself that I am not old, even though every day I find something else that makes me feel as such; today is no exception. Lately on campus there has been an increase in discussions of sexuality. I'm not sure if it's because Maine is trying to pass same sex marriage or not [it passed!], but it sure has got my mind going.

We are a culture that shames sexuality. It's something that we don't want to talk about, hear about, or see. I'm not sure what happened between the days of viewing the naked human form as art and now viewing it as porn, but I'm confused by it. According to the story of Adam and Eve, if Eve never ate the apple from the tree of knowledge, we'd all be walking around naked right now!

So why are we so ashamed of discussing sexuality and giving information out to those who need/want it? One thing that I am thankful for is that I work at a public institution that doesn't limit the resources we can share with students. However, as many may be aware, some of these resources are not highly thought of in some circles and are risking being closed.

I feel as though I come from a time when hooking up meant making out and maybe getting to "2nd base". In conversations with students I've been informed that that is not how the term is used anymore; which is why I've become to feel old again. Hooking up, at least here, means having sex. I am someone who believes that exploring your sexuality and having sex isn't a bad thing, and it shouldn't be shameful. Although, I also believe that sex has to be consensual, at all times, and done with precautions. So what is the point in all of this?

Well, how many of you have met with students who have questions about Plan B, abortions, pregnancy tests, STD testing, sexual assaults, or birth control? Now, I do understand that it may depend on your institution as to what conversations you may be able to have with students, but here I find that these conversations are increasing. Last year we had a few students who were pregnant and/or got pregnant while they were here. Again, it may be different in your area or at your institution  but I find here that in the age of the hook up, conversations in a preventative manner are not happening.  Why might this be?

• First generation students.
• Low income/poverty.
• Religious beliefs.
• Lack of Sexual Health Education classes

...What are your thoughts? Can you add to this list?

Now as the weather begins to warm and young love is in the air - what do you see on your campus? Within the past month it's interesting how I've noticed the relationships among residents forming or breaking apart. Are you taking notice? Have you increased any programming efforts in your area? Of course a hot topic in February is focused around relationships and Valentine's Day. In my building our monthly bulletin board was focused on sexual health. However, my hints at doing educational programs about sex have not been reciprocated. 

Final thought: This year I've learned that we should not expect our residents/students to come to college prepared with knowledge on sexual health. I've answered more questions and have had many conversations about sex and condoms then I ever thought I would.