How does sex education affect teen pregnancy and the AIDS epidemic, and how is it tolerated in schools? For many years, sex education in schools has been a controversial topic in the United States. Sex education in schools is hotly debated because some think it encourages students to engage in sexual behaviors that can lead to sexually transmitted diseases or teenage pregnancy. The AIDS epidemic was one reason why sex education became mandatory in many states. The younger the students who received sex education, the more effective it appeared to be. The deliberation over sex education in schools explains why it is still a controversial topic in America. Sex education in schools began to become controversial in the early 1900s. “During the 1980s these topics began to lose legitimacy as the American republic reiterated its support (Fose ).” “Although this topic is hotly debated, 93% of Americans support “sex or sexuality” courses taught in high schools and 84% support teaching them in middle schools (Fose).” More and more people have been demanding sex education due to the AIDS epidemic. The AIDS epidemic ca...