Santa Barbara, Calif. — A public university in California is facing backlash for featuring a controversial website that encourages parents to allow children as young as 4-years old to engage in sexual activity and watch porn.
According to a report published by The Fix, The University of California, Santa Barbara’s sociology department hosts an online platform called “SexInfo Online” geared toward answering questions on sexuality.
The platform, according to the website, is operated by students “who have studied advanced topics in human sexuality.” On it appear multiple photos of children as young as 2, who appear to be kissing.
“The majority of sexual play between children takes place between the ages of 4 and 7,” the website states in a section titled “Childhood Sexuality.”
“Children might display affection to their friends by hugging and kissing, or touching each other’s genitals, which is perfectly normal. Parents should not react in a negative way because children are just exploring.”
The site adds that parents should intervene only “if the acts are non-consensual or hurtful.”
But a section of the website causing the most controversy, “Talking To Your Children About Sex,” encourages children to allow their children to watch pornography.
“It is important that children understand that viewing pornography is a normal habit, and that they do not need to be ashamed of it,” the site states.
Further, the site calls for parents to have no say in whether or not their child is too young for sex.
“Children and teens do not want to be told what to do, especially when it comes to personal topics such as sex,” the website states. “It is important that parents do not lecture their children, but instead try to present information and have an open discussion about sex. Adolescents will make their own decisions regarding sex and it is up to the parent to give them the information and resources needed to make informed decisions.”
Calls for statement to a University of California, Santa Barbara representative were met with “no comment”.