In Context: 5 Web Perspectives On A Story In The News

Abstinence-only education gets new interest

(The New York Times)

A study of middle-school students has found that abstinence-only education helps to delay sexual activity longer then when students were informed of the risks of sex. This contradicts the assumption that comprehensive, safer sex programs were more effective at preventing early sexual activity. This research comes just as the Obama administration has proposed to cut federal financing to abstinence-only programs.

1.

Abstinence-only published study

Archives of Prediatrics & Adolescent Medicine

This website shows the published study, led by Dr. John B. Jemmott III from the University of Pennsylvania, that followed the 662 African-American urban middle school students. About half of those who were assigned to comprehensive sex-education classes that covered both abstinence and safer sex started having sex within the next two years. In comparison, about a third of the 662 students who participated in the abstinence-only class started having sex within the next two years. 

2.

Non-profit abstinence organization

National Abstinence Education Association

This website is run by a non-profit organization based in the United States that looks to encourage abstinence by evaluating data, interpreting research trends and “rebranding the abstinence message” to provide a more positive representation. It does not base its advocacy on an ideological message.

3.

Impact of five years of abstinence-only education

Advocates for Youth

This website discusses the impact of five years of an abstinence-only education program. Also looks at teen pregnancy statistics, funding sources for the programs, short-term effects and comparisons between abstinence-only education and comprehensive sex education.

4.

Popular Christian abstinence movement

True Love Waits

The website of a popular Christian movement that challenges students in both high schools and universities to postpone sexual activity until marriage. The program often speaks at schools or public events and profits from its extensive collection of “True Love Waits” jewelry, which vary from the popular rings to necklaces and bracelets. 

5.

Government funding cuts to abstinence-only education

The White House: Office of Management and Budget

President Barack Obama’s proposed budget plan that includes funding cuts to abstinence-only programs in preference of comprehensive sex education programs in middle schools and high schools.