Safe Sex Or Advertised Sex Essay Example
Safe Sex Or Advertised Sex Essay Example

Safe Sex Or Advertised Sex Essay Example

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  • Pages: 5 (1111 words)
  • Published: August 13, 2018
  • Type: Essay
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Concerns arise from the high prevalence of sexual activity among teenagers in the United States. Statistics indicate that nearly 75 percent of US teenagers engage in intercourse prior to turning 20, while only 15 percent maintain their virginity until reaching 21 (teenage). Moreover, research conducted by the Guttmacher Institute reveals that American teens are more inclined towards early sexual activity and multiple partners within a year when compared to their counterparts in Sweden, France, Canada, and the United Kingdom. This prompts an inquiry into the reasons behind these higher figures in the US as opposed to other nations.

The increase in sex-related advertisements in contemporary society can be linked to the expansion of the advertising industry. Such advertisements are widespread in high schools, television commercials, and song lyrics. Advertisers argue that these ads advocate for "

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safe sex" by endorsing the usage of condoms, birth control, and other contraceptives. Nonetheless, doubts exist as to whether these ads genuinely promote "safe sex" or rather encourage underage sexual activity. To reach a conclusion, it is essential to examine both the content and messages conveyed by these ads.

In our educational system, sex education is required and begins in 5th and 6th grade. It covers foundational topics and continues through high school, focusing on promoting awareness of sex and self-discipline. In health/parenting classes, condoms are distributed by instructors to encourage understanding of safe sexual behaviors. However, this approach also suggests that engaging in sexual intercourse is acceptable as long as protection is used.

In my perspective, the distribution of condoms in high school serves as a way to promote safe sex and foster an informed mindset. This approach

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helps students understand the importance of preventing diseases and teenage pregnancies. Nevertheless, it is essential to acknowledge that teenagers have different attitudes towards sex. During this period, many high school students experience changes as they move into adulthood. Some may feel compelled to partake in certain behaviors to fit in or gain approval from their peers. The challenge lies in finding a harmonious equilibrium between social life and academic obligations.

In this experience, sexual activity becomes a significant aspect of their daily lives. Numerous individuals encounter their initial romantic relationships, first experiences with love, and amidst all these intense emotions, they can become vulnerable and potentially exploited. Without considering the potential consequences, they engage in sexual activities. Conversely, some individuals engage in sexual activities out of curiosity or for the sake of pleasure. Nevertheless, these actions can lead to future regrets. Another avenue for promoting sexual activity is through television. The majority of television shows and commercials hint at or depict sexual content in some way.

The market offers a diverse selection of movies, commercials, and shows catering to individuals of all ages that include sexual content. Certain ones can be watched without parental guidance. Promotions involving condoms are quite popular as well. Take for instance, a commercial advertising the "ecstasy" condom brand. The advertisement employs lines such as "lubricated inside and out" and "thin like nothing is there" to portray the condom as an inventive product. These specific phrases spark curiosity and a desire to try it out.

The main target audience for this cause and effect commercial is young teenagers, as they are drawn to the language and concepts used in the advertisement.

As mentioned earlier, some teenagers engage in sexual activity for the sake of pleasure, and that is precisely what these commercials aim to present - a portrayal of sex as something enjoyable and appealing. Moreover, many movies contain explicit sex scenes as a means of attracting viewers and increasing sales. These scenes are always depicted in a positive light, creating a desire among people to watch them. Given the widespread popularity of sex, any movie that includes sexual content is guaranteed to be successful. Another method of promoting sex is through pornography.

Observing others engage in sexual activity is pleasurable for some individuals, which is why they enjoy watching pornography. Pornography serves as a means of escaping reality, allowing people to temporarily fulfill their unmet sexual fantasies through film. Teenagers often turn to pornography as an educational resource for understanding sex. Their understanding of sexual intercourse primarily comes from pornographic content, and some attempt to imitate what they see. However, striving to replicate acts portrayed in pornography can have negative effects on self-confidence and personal satisfaction if they are unable to meet the same standards depicted in adult films.

In my opinion, pornography is a form of promoting unreliable and unprotected sex that should not be supported. Additionally, music serves as a significant aspect of people's lives by reflecting their lifestyle and acting as a means of self-identity. Numerous radio songs also promote sexual content, such as R. Kelly's "Bump N' Grind," which includes lyrics like: "I don't see anything wrong (Wrong) with a little bump and grind…I know exactly what you want and I know precisely what you need, so baby bring your body

to me (bring your body here)".

In this statement, R. Kelly discusses how sex is a natural desire of the body without addressing the importance of practicing safe sex. The power of song lyrics can greatly impact individuals, potentially influencing them towards various actions. For instance, listening to this type of music could lead couples to engage in sexual activity when alone together. Unfortunately, due to the mood set by the music, unprotected sex may occur. Ultimately, friends exert significant influence when it comes to sexual behavior.

Teenagers frequently rely on their friends for guidance and advice, while friends have specific expectations and sought-after qualities in relationships. Occasionally, peer pressure can sway a friend to engage in sexual activity, regardless of its safety or lack thereof. The urge to fit in can result in heightened sexual activity among friends who fear missing out on the same experiences. Peer pressure wields significant influence and can compel individuals into situations they may not be prepared for.

The choice to succumb to peer pressure or not is ultimately up to the individual. Staying true to oneself and making independent choices based on personal values is important. It is crucial not to let others dictate one's decisions. In summary, while promoting safe sex may encourage sexual activities, it is also beneficial to have commercials and shows addressing this topic.

The public is informed that they can protect themselves with free condoms, eliminating any excuse to not use protection. The decision to engage in sexual activity ultimately rests with the individual, and promotion or advertising aims to educate about safe sex rather than compel participation. Despite this, some teenagers misconstrue

the messages from these ads and engage in sexual activity prematurely.

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