Abstinence Only Sex Education Essay Example

as well as pregnancy (including HIV). As a result of better sex education initiatives in recent years, teenage pregnancy rates have decreased while contraception usage among teenagers has increased.The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention's 2004 report shows that teenage pregnancy decreased by more than half due to increased abstinence and almost half because of a rise in contraceptive use (Berne 95). Moreover, the National Campaign to Prevent Teen Pregnancy discovered that over one out of eight sexually experienced teen boys caused pregnancy, while girls who engage in sexual activity before turning fifteen are at higher risk of becoming pregnant. Nonetheless, teenagers have lower chances of getting pregnant if they use contraception during their first sexual experience (Berne 112). Although it may not be realistic to expect students not to explore their sexuality, society should encourage adolescents only when they are physically, cognitively and emotionally mature enough for such relationships and their consequences. The recommendation has been approved as part of the Sexuality Information and Education Council of the United States by the National Commission on Adolescent Sexual Health.

According to Haffner (142), it is crucial for society to acknowledge that teenagers will engage in sexual relationships, which include dating, intimacy, and sexual intercourse. Abstinence-only programs do not equip teens with the essential knowledge to safeguard themselves and lead to inadequate comprehension of human sexuality. The Wall Street Journalist rebuts objections against mixed messages in comprehensive sex education by highlighting existing nuanced messages directed towards teens - like advising them not to drink and drive but instead call for a ride if they consume alcohol.

Despite the presence of certain factors, such as early physical development, a

lower age of menarche, a higher testosterone level, holder siblings, single-parent household environments, or mothers with lower educational attainment that can influence an individual's decision to engage in sexual intercourse, there are ways comprehensive sexual education programs can make an impact. Such programs can subtly alter a teenager's perception of their friend and sibling's sexual practices (Haffner 142). Furthermore, various forms of birth control have been developed over time to prevent unintended pregnancies and sexually transmitted infections. These include female hormone stimulants, male and female condoms, emergency contraceptive B, and abstinence.

Isabel Sawhill of the Brookings Institution states that sending a message that abstinence is the best option for preventing pregnancy and disease is essential. However, educating teens about birth control is also necessary, and there should be no confusion between educating and promoting. Criticisms suggest that teaching adolescents about safe sex methods encourages sexual activity. However, in 1997, a study by the Joint United Nations Programme on HIV/AIDS examined 22 HIV prevention and comprehensive sex education programs and found that they reduced the number of sexual partners and delayed the start of sexual activities. Moreover, each program was effective in reducing the increase in pregnancy and sexually transmitted infections.

(…) Congress approved the Adolescent Family Life program, also known as Title XX, in 1981. This initiative offers funding to organizations based in schools and communities that educate young people about sexual abstinence. Proponents of abstinence-only sex education attribute it to a reduction in teenage pregnancies. (…) Research by Focus on the Family shows that only 14 percent of Americans agree with allowing teenagers to have sex provided they have access to birth control. The group

opposes safe sex programs and contraception distribution among teenagers within schools.

There are concerns that young people may think they should use condoms and pills distributed by officials if their parents aren't involved. Nonetheless, a survey in 1999 by the Sexuality Information and Education Council of the United States and Advocates for Youth discovered that 90% of those surveyed thought that high school juniors and seniors should be informed about contraceptives, while 95% believed abstinence should also be addressed. Proponents of comprehensive sex education contend that teenagers deserve trustworthy and precise information to safeguard themselves.

The issue of teenage pregnancy and experimentation with partners has been on the rise despite the availability of contraceptives. This is why it is crucial to prioritize comprehensive sex education. To address this, the Teen Prevention Education Program trains knowledgeable juniors and seniors on teenage sexuality and adolescent issues. They then conduct workshops for freshman students in a secure, supportive, and confidential environment. According to a survey conducted by Time/CNN in April 1998, only 7% of teenagers received sex education from their parents, while most learned from peers.

It is crucial to educate teenagers accurately because they primarily depend on their peers for information. This will prevent future regrets. If teens decide to engage in sexual activities, providing them with knowledge about available contraceptive options will equip them with the necessary information regarding potential consequences and where to seek assistance. Only emphasizing abstinence without providing comprehensive education leaves young individuals uninformed and vulnerable to potential risks.