University, Obama break from abstinence-only pack
Editorial
Issue date: 3/19/09 Section: Editorial
It is a shame that such a small majority of people carry such a loud voice in this effort to protect our youth, and we are settling to stay stagnant, listening to the battle cry from both sides. If we can see a compromise that will yield better results, why are we doing nothing to implement its effectiveness and change this downward spiral of the American family? We should at least pay attention to where the people we vote for stand on these issues.
Federal law requires the sex education programs they fund to teach teens any sexual activity outside of marriage is wrong. The law also advocates abstinence as the only form of birth control and any discussion of other contraception is forbidden, with the exception of contraceptive failure rates.
Though no evidence supports delayed teen sexual activity following abstinence-only education, research does show abstinence-only strategies deterring teens from using contraception. So, instead of suffering through the awkwardness of asking their parents for contraception, teens will simply refrain from practicing safe sex.
Change, the token phrase of our new president, has begun, and undoubtedly it will be carried out on this critical issue. However, until then, we can take our free blue and gold condoms and be thankful for our liberal education.
Federal law requires the sex education programs they fund to teach teens any sexual activity outside of marriage is wrong. The law also advocates abstinence as the only form of birth control and any discussion of other contraception is forbidden, with the exception of contraceptive failure rates.
Though no evidence supports delayed teen sexual activity following abstinence-only education, research does show abstinence-only strategies deterring teens from using contraception. So, instead of suffering through the awkwardness of asking their parents for contraception, teens will simply refrain from practicing safe sex.
Change, the token phrase of our new president, has begun, and undoubtedly it will be carried out on this critical issue. However, until then, we can take our free blue and gold condoms and be thankful for our liberal education.
