Comprehensive Sexuality Education in initial teacher education and training: a systematic literature review in the Ibero-American context

Engagement with Comprehensive Sexuality Education (CSE) as part of teacher education remains a relatively unexplored field in the Ibero-American context despite broad agreement on the need to prepare qualified professionals. This study examined current trends in CSE implementation by focusing on prevailing attitudes among trainee teachers, instructional strategies, and outstanding challenges in initial teacher education and training contexts. Using a systematic literature review and a systematic mapping approach informed by the PRISMA guidelines, eighteen peer-reviewed articles were identified and analysed. The findings revealed generally positive attitudes among trainee teachers towards the teaching of CSE but stressed the importance of adequate professional preparation. The review concludes that the integration of CSE into initial teacher training programmes is both increasingly valued by trainee teachers and teacher education institutions, although significant challenges remain in equipping trainee teachers with the competencies required to effectively address sexuality education.