Florida bans AP Psychology curriculum on sexual orientation and gender identity teachings.

Florida Bans AP Psychology Classes ‌Including Sexual and ⁢Gender Identity

In a shocking turn of events, Florida school superintendents received news that Advanced Placement (AP) Psychology classes would be banned in the state if they included discussions on sexual and gender identity. The College Board, which oversees the AP program, firmly stated that the course cannot be modified in such a manner and cannot be taught without these crucial topics. This decision effectively eliminates AP Psychology from Florida’s curriculum.

While other educational programs like IB and AICE/Cambridge have agreed to Florida’s change, the College Board has been highly critical of the state’s education policy changes. Governor Ron DeSantis’s mission to remove Marxist-leaning ideologies from public education has prompted a complete overhaul of the curriculum, with AP Psychology being the latest casualty. The College Board has expressed its concern over this decision and urges Florida to reverse it, allowing parents and students to have the choice to take the full course.

AP Psychology has been a popular course in Florida, ranking sixth in popularity last school year. The course explores how sex and gender influence socialization and development, topics that have been a part of the curriculum for the past 30 years. The College Board emphasizes that these discussions are essential for psychology graduates, as they will encounter professional environments that require familiarity with these concepts.

The American Psychological Association (APA) has also voiced its opposition to Florida’s decision, emphasizing the need to teach sex and gender issues in an affirming and inclusive manner. The APA argues that removing the study of these topics is a form of discrimination and can have negative mental and behavioral health outcomes for sexual and gender minority individuals. They believe that erasing LGBTQ+ people from public view is detrimental to society.

The treatment of gender dysmorphia has evolved significantly in recent years, with a shift towards a “gender affirming” model. This model encourages professionals to support patients in pursuing physical treatments if they are uncomfortable with their gender. However, critics argue that this approach may not be suitable for all individuals, and long-term surveys reveal detransitioners who regret their decisions and ongoing suicide risks.

Overall, the ban on AP Psychology in Florida due to its inclusion of sexual and gender identity topics has sparked controversy and raised concerns about the state’s education policies. The College Board, APA, and other organizations argue that these discussions are crucial for a comprehensive understanding of psychology and the well-being of LGBTQ+ individuals.

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