In the Shadows is a study of masculinity, contraception, and sex education in Japanese youth culture. Dr. Castro-Vazquez presents a study based on research surrounding sexual education classes. The study begins with a history of sex ed courses and an analysis of the ways schools influence the sexual identities of students. Further research is presented regarding the curricular development of an actual sex ed course. This research contains qualitative and quantitative methods for assessing the quality of sex education for Japanese high school students, the application of a semantic differential, and an attitude scale. Dr. Castro-Vazquez applies this research to directly develop a practical theory regarding Japanese youth sexuality. In the Shadows is of interest to advanced students and researchers of Japanese studies, gender studies, and sociology.