Valuable book on adolescence, sex, AIDS and other sexually transmitted diseases

Sigmund Freud (1856 - 1939) - the Father of psychoanalysis - was famous not only for invaluable contribution that he made for psychology but also for many of his controversial ideologies. For Freud, everything, both good and bad, seems to stem from the expression or repression of the sex drive. Despite the fact that many of his theories, including Oedipus Complex, were contentious, and for some were "eccentric", the debate on Sexuality and Human Life that he started, still continues.

It is not surprising that Sigmund Freud comes to my mind when I read the book on Adolescence, Sex AIDS and Other Sexually Transmitted Diseases (STDs) by Dr. Duminda Handapangoda which is the first book written on the subject in Sinhala in Sri Lanka. Although it does not contain as many controversial issues as in the case of Freud, the book challenges many mythical beliefs on sexuality that prevail in rather a conservative and traditional country such as Sri Lanka whilst educating people on the subject.

Sri Lankan society is traditionally known for its mysterious attitude and approach towards sexuality. Open discussion on sexuality, even between husband and wife, is still considered a social taboo if not vulgar and sinful in this country. We have heard of many young women who suffer due to prevailing non-scientific beliefs on virginity. For Sri Lankan adolescents, sex is a complete dilemma which is not discussed at the most important age at the puberty. This coupled with lack of sex education has resulted in many social and mental problems, the worst of them being the spread of AIDS and other STDs. In this social context, I consider this book by Dr. Duminda Handapangoda most apt, timely and very useful to all irrespective of age although it is titled for adolescents.

Dr. Handapangoda, begins his book by giving a valuable introduction to adolescence and the physical and psycho - social transformations experienced at puberty. Subsequently, he provides a scientific account of sexual life whilst discussing the wonders of adolescence. Then, he progresses to highlight the dangers of having irresponsible sexual relationships. Amongst them are,

He reveals that most youths in Sri Lanka obtain information on sex from unsystematic and informal sources and hence stresses the necessity for accurate scientific education on it. He emphasizes that this education should start at home and thus parents have to play a much greater role than what they do now.

Dr. Handapangoda, then moves on to the most important aspect of this book, the STDs. He gives a comprehensive analysis on STDs including AIDS, how they are transmitted and most importantly methods of preventing such diseases. He uses clear, concise and reader-friendly language in his detailed clarifications and gives pictorial illustrations on many aspects of STDs. It is very important that this book provides details of places where treatment can be received in case of STDs.

The explanation that he provides on AIDS, in my opinion, is the apex of all. Once again he commences by giving a scientific account on AIDS prior to progressing into presenting how it can be prevented in a manner that even a layman can understand it. I am of the opinion that his description of how this deadliest disease of the modern era, is and is not transmitted helps clearing the common myths surrounding AIDS. This book teaches us to be compassionate about AIDS patients, a principle that emanates from Buddhism. A doctor who was known to me contracted AIDS, not due to her fault but due to a blood transfusion. She was neglected by society and to much surprise even by her some of her colleagues in the very medical profession, who did not even want to meet her. This book educates everyone including those who are in the medical field that AIDS is not transmitted by normal socializing.

I believe that this book is of high educational value and must be read by everyone irrespective of age and sex.