Dallas Morning News Examines National Programs That Promote Abstinence-Only Policies To Prevent Teen Pregnancies, STDs
[Oct 11, 2005]
The Dallas Morning News on Friday examined national programs promoting abstinence-only education to combat teenage pregnancy and sexually transmitted diseases. "With strong support from President Bush and millions of dollars in funding, abstinence-only sex ed has become the government's preferred strategy in the war on teenage pregnancy" and STDs, the Dallas Morning News reports. Aim For Success, founded in 1993, is the largest abstinence program in the country, giving 2,500 presentations annually for middle and high school students. The group teaches young people that they can jeopardize their life goals by engaging in premarital sex, the Morning News reports. "Abstinence is a very positive, upbeat message," the group's founder, Marilyn Morris, said. Another national organization, called the Silver Ring Thing, sends teenagers regular e-mails with tips, advice and support on staying abstinent and encourages teens to wear silver rings to publicly display their commitment to abstinence. Founded in 1996, the group receives $1 million in federal funding annually. James Wagoner -- president of Advocates for Youth, a national organization that opposes abstinence-only policies -- said, "The emphasis on abstinence-only education precludes discussion about safer sex practices, putting young people at risk," adding, "especially those who are technical virgins and who, while trying to keep their virginity intact, engage in other risky sexual behavior" (Tarrant, Dallas Morning News, 10/6).
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