In conclusion, parents should remember that, even though adolescents may appear to possess a great deal of knowledge, it may be factually inaccurate and, above all, may require putting into correct perspective.  This applies particularly to the older adolescents who have been involved in criminal charges.  That group may have practical experience of the mechanics of sex; what they require is a more wholesome outlook on the intimate relations of man and woman.

XII.  The Influence of Religion on Morality

A common element in many of the statements made to the Committee is a desire for a better spiritual basis in our society on which a sound code of morals may be built.

=(1) The Need for a Religious Faith=

The consensus of opinion before the Committee is that there is a lack of spiritual values in the community.  This is not merely because the majority of people do not go to church, but because of the general temper of society and standards of morality.  Most people would affirm some sort of belief in God, but are unable to relate it to their daily lives.

It may be a matter of argument that morality is dependent on religion, but the structure of western society and our codes of behaviour have, in fact, been based upon the Christian faith.  If this faith is not generally accepted, the standard of conduct associated with it must deteriorate.

Signs are not lacking that people are turning away from a purely materialistic conception of life, and seeking a more spiritual basis for conduct.

The recent disclosures in the Hutt Valley indicate a largely nominal church affiliation in most of the cases under review.  Although it was stated that thirty-six per cent of the offenders attended church or Sunday School regularly, and that sixty-four per cent had never attended or had ceased to attend, closer examination of the individual cases would be required before any deduction could be drawn from the figures given to the Committee.  It is, however, safe to assume that there was little religious teaching; and it is unfortunately true that there was a failure to observe moral standards.  The acceptance of the Christian position cannot fail to promote good conduct in all fields including the relationship between the sexes.

=(2) The Need for Religious Instruction=

The Committee considers that the Nelson system of religious teaching in schools should be encouraged and developed.  In so far as the basic philosophy of education in New Zealand may not be religious, the Committee notes that a conference between the Department of Education and the New Zealand Council for Christian Education is being arranged.

Church activities among youth affected were criticized on the grounds that they appealed only to the “good boys and girls”, or to those who already belong to a church.  This situation presents a challenge which needs to be met, and it will demand, in particular, a consideration of how young people are to be encouraged to spend their time on Sundays.