 Did you KNOW?62% of teenagers who have been sexually active wish they had waited longer (Roper Starch World Wide Poll, in conjunction with SIECUS, 1994) |
Why Choose Abstinence?
In recent years, abstinence has become more and more common among teenagers. In a national survey, 93% of teens themselves think they should be given a "strong message" to abstain from sex (National Campaign to Prevent Teen Pregnancy, 2000). According to the most recent Youth Risk Behavior Surveillance, the majority of high school students have not had sex and 3 out of 4 teens who have become sexually active regret that decision and wish that they had waited. Choosing abstinence can be one of the most powerful and positive decisions of your life. No matter what your past decisions may have been, you have the ability to make great decisions for your future. Remember, the choice is yours and you are worth waiting for!
The Risks of Choosing Sexual Activity
Teen sexual activity carries with it numerous risks. You've probably heard of sexually transmitted diseases? but do you realize just how dangerous and common some STDs can be? This year alone, 3.8 million STDs will be contracted by teens in America. This is 10,000 teens per day (or one teen every 8 seconds)! Most people who acquire an STD in the United States are under the age of 25. In addition, about 2,500 teen girls become pregnant each day in America. Beyond the physical aspects of teen sexual activity, there are many emotional effects of sexual activity outside of a committed, loving marriage. A recent study shows a link between sexual activity and depression in teens. As many teens have learned, there is no condom to protect the heart. Teens who have become sexually active always have the option to stop and wait to have sex. If you or someone you know have been sexually active, you can't change your past, but you can make positive choices for your future. Also, if you or someone you know have been sexually active, it is important to talk to your parents and visit a medical professional to get tested and treated for sexually transmitted diseases. And what about the other consequences sex can bring? In the classrooms of Chicago and other cities across the country where Project Reality's programs are taught, teens are asked to list the possible emotional, mental and social consequences (in addition to physical consequences) of sexual activity. Perhaps you've participated in this activity in your school. If not, try making your own list. Here are some of the most common responses we get from students:
As you may have figured, most teens have no problem listing the possible problems that come along with being sexually active. You understand that there is no condom that protects the heart. Human beings have feelings, and when the most intimate physical act takes place, there can be physical, emotional, mental and social consequences afterwards. But, there are also many benefits to abstinence besides avoiding the possible risks of teen sexual activity. |