The article selected to support the argument that abstinence-only education is the best way to teach adolescents about sex is titled “Modeling Abstinence Education Effectiveness”, which emphasizes abstaining from sexual activity outside of marital relationships (Smith et al., 2014). It argues that abstinence programs emphasize the social, cultural, psychological, and health benefits of abstinence and teach that abstaining from sexual activity until marriage is the expected standard for all adolescents. The authors advocate that abstinence-only education emphasizes morality by promoting sexual abstinence until marriage to reduce the risk of unintended pregnancies. They advocate abstinence programs with the stance that these programs provide decision-making abilities and valuable life skills that are the foundation for a healthy and responsible relationship later in life.
However, the article “Abstinence-Only Education Doesn’t Work. We’re Still Finding It” refutes this argument, building on the stance that abstinence-only education programs “threaten fundamental human rights” to health and overall quality of life (Santelli, 2017). The article emphasizes that controversy arises when abstinence is presented as the sole choice for adolescents, restricting necessary information about other options due to which they often fail to protect against STIs and pregnancy. It also shows that reducing or delaying early sexual activity among adolescents can help reduce the risks of sexually transmitted diseases. The authors also argue that abstinence-only education withholds information and promotes questionable opinions.
In my opinion, abstinence is a healthy option, but relying solely on abstinence education is ethically problematic for adolescents. They need to be offered a more effective and well-rounded approach to sexual health through comprehensive programs with information about contraception and safer sex practices. However, I believe that the choice depends on individual needs, cultural context, and societal values. Additionally, I agree with Santelli’s perspective that abstinence is morally problematic for adolescents and advocate for the sexual education option that is anchored in a gender and human rights-oriented experience for the reproductive health and overall well-being of individuals.
References
Santelli, J. (2017). Abstinence-only education doesn’t work. We’re still funding it. The Washington Post.
Smith, T. E., Atar, B., Ferreira, T., Valentine, P., & Pereira, M. G. (2014). Modeling abstinence education effectiveness. International Journal of Psychology Research & Therapeutics, 1–4.
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