Ep 20. Educating Janine

Doogie Howser, M.D. season 3 episode 20 is titled "Educating Janine." This episode revolves around Doogie's attempts to teach his younger sister, Janine, about sex education.

Janine is a curious and intelligent teenager who has been asking Doogie questions about sex and relationships. Doogie realizes that he needs to have a conversation with her about this important topic but is unsure where to begin. He discusses the issue with his girlfriend, Wanda, who suggests that he approach the subject in a responsible and informative way.

Doogie decides to use a combination of textbooks, diagrams, and personal anecdotes to educate Janine. He explains the different types of contraception, the importance of consent in relationships, and the emotional impact of sexual activity. Janine is initially uncomfortable with the subject but gradually becomes more at ease with Doogie's teaching style.

As the episode progresses, Janine becomes more confident in her understanding of sex education. She begins to discuss the topic with her friends and even offers advice to one of them who is struggling with a difficult situation. Doogie is proud of his sister's newfound knowledge and encourages her to continue asking questions and seeking information.

Meanwhile, Doogie is dealing with a different sort of challenge at work. He is assigned to help a young girl who has been diagnosed with leukemia. The girl is struggling with the side effects of chemotherapy and is resisting her treatment. Doogie uses his medical knowledge and empathy to help her understand the importance of her treatment and to deal with her fears and concerns.

In the end, both Janine and Doogie are successful in their endeavors. Janine feels more informed and empowered, while the young leukemia patient begins to accept her treatment. The episode ends on a hopeful note, reaffirming the importance of education and compassion in both personal and professional relationships.

Overall, "Educating Janine" is a thoughtful and informative episode that handles a sensitive topic with care and intelligence. It highlights the importance of sex education and informed consent in relationships, as well as the role of empathy and communication in medical care.