
In the previous analysis, titled “The Feminist Model and Its Psychosocial Effects”, we examined the development of educational policies promoted in Denmark during the 1960s. In particular, the publication of the Den Blå Betænkning (Blue Report) in 1968 was highlighted. This document was produced by a committee appointed by the Danish social democratic government.
We highlight that these ideologies were led by Dr. Kirsten Auken (1913–1968), who directed and presented the report to the Danish authorities. Auken was known for her advocacy of women’s right to receive sexual education. She also introduced concepts such as female sexual freedom and the right of women to experience their sexuality without being judged.
It is worth noting that her doctoral thesis and her academic defense on sexual matters were based on studies and interviews conducted with 315 women aged between 20 and 35.
Educational Recommendations from the Blue Report
Among the recommendations presented, Auken emphasized the need for women to understand that, in many cases:
“What might be a great love for some women, for the man could simply be an unimportant relationship.” (2)
As a preventive measure against potential emotional breakups, Auken suggested that women should have an emotional “Plan B”, meaning an alternative emotional support figure outside the romantic partner, who could help them maintain emotional stability in case of abandonment.
Likewise, Dr. Auken recommended in her report that teachers should “not talk to students about emotions.”
Auken also introduced topics such as masturbation and sexual fantasies, stating that these were more common among men, and that girls should not feel pressured to prove that they had sexual desires.
Homosexual Relationship Models
Within the homosexual relationship models presented in the Blue Report, it was stated that students should learn to:
- Recognize that, in every classroom, at least one student may experience same-sex attraction.
- Understand that feelings of romantic love are the same for homosexuals as for heterosexuals.
- Promote 100% tolerance toward homosexuality.
- Be informed that some homosexual adults may feel attracted to minors, recommending at least the interruption of a sexual relationship with an adult in which the minor feels pressured. Auken did not provide clear guidelines on how to act if the adult refused to end the sexual relationship with the minor.
- Understand that group masturbation and ejaculation among boys does not necessarily imply homosexuality.
- Encourage the elimination of drama, and promote free access to masturbation and pornography in both video and written formats.
Psychosocial Impact of Educational Models
Although these theories were implemented more than six decades ago in Denmark, their influence has crossed borders and been adopted in various countries. However, contemporary studies warn that, regardless of the type of sexual practice (within or outside of marriage, heterosexual or homosexual), many young people have been exposed to behavioral models that have negatively affected their mental stability, in some cases leading to suicidal ideation or behavior.
Empirical Evidence: Mental Health and Sexual Orientation
One of the most relevant studies in this field is the systematic review titled:
“A systematic review of mental disorder, suicide, and deliberate self harm in lesbian, gay and bisexual people” (3), published on August 18, 2008, Volume 8, Article 70 in BMC Psychiatry.
The study, conducted in the United Kingdom, analyzed data from 36,489 individuals, based on previous investigations such as those by Fergusson (1999) and Mathy (2002). The sample included 12% non-heterosexual people and 88% heterosexual people.
Total | Homosexuals | Heterosexuals | Totales |
Fergusson 1999 | 28 | 979 | 1,007 |
Mathy 2002 | 4,301 | 31,181 | 35,482 |
Total People | 4,329 | 32,160 | 36,489 |
Suicide Ideation | 1,111 | 4,577 | 5,688 |
% | 26% | 14% | 16% |
Study Conclusions:
- 26% of homosexual individuals and 14% of heterosexuals reported suicide attempts.
- The analysis showed that the risk of suicide attempt was approximately 2.5 times higher among homosexual individuals.
- The risk of depression and anxiety disorders was at least 1.5 times higher among homosexuals.
- A greater prevalence of alcohol and substance dependence (also 1.5 times higher) was also observed among homosexual individuals.
Final Reflection
The guidelines proposed by Dr. Kirsten Auken in the Blue Report of 1968 regarding romantic love, sexuality, and affectivity have not proven to be fully effective. Today, the data suggest that mental health issues in young people are not determined solely by their sexual orientation, but rather by deep unresolved emotional problems that affect their ability to deal with romantic breakups, rejection, or loneliness. This highlights the fact that romantic relationships require emotional maturity.
Research shows a significant increase in psychological distress indicators among homosexual youth, including higher rates of suicidal ideation and attempts, and greater prevalence of depression, anxiety, and substance dependence.
It is therefore concluded that emotional education is not intrinsically linked to sexual preference, but rather to unresolved internal conflicts that lead individuals to make decisions that harm their mental health, influence how they form relationships, and affect how they respond to romantic failures.
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References
(1)Kirsten Auken – Danmarks første sexolog – La Primera Sexólaga Danesa
https://content.ugeskriftet.dk/sites/default/files/scientific_article_files/2013-11/artikel_4478.pdf
(2) Tomado del libro ¿Vestida de Novia? de Teresa Ruiz Pedersen, pág. 144 y 146
(3) A systematic review of mental disorder, suicide, and deliberate self harm in lesbian, gay and bisexual people” https://link.springer.com/article/10.1186/1471-244X-8-70
To watch the Video here
The Psychological Legacy of Love Education