Abstinence-Plus Education Essay

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Abstinence-plus Education Over the last several years, educators have debated whether Abstinence-only verses Abstinence- plus Education is the correct way to educate teens. Meanwhile, educators are beginning to recognize the growing number of young American adolescents who are becoming more sexually active at an even earlier age. In result, teen pregnancies, STDs, and the prevalence of AIDS has greatly affected the overall health of American teens, causing a major problem among young adults, and this epidemic has to be addressed. An effective approach for these issues is Abstinence-plus Education; not only does it encourages abstinence, but it also provides teens with the knowledge necessary to protect themselves if they decide to engage in intercourse. Abstinence-plus Education first, encourages teens to be abstinence, but recognizes that abstinence may not be the choice for all teens. Even though, comprehensive sex education greatly emphasizes the benefits of being abstinent, Abstinence-only opponents argue that educating teens on sex before marriage is immoral and should not be taught in schools. On the other hand, what does that approach say to gay and lesbian students forbidden by law to “marry” in a legal sense (Wiley)? However, Abstinence-only Education is being taught in many public schools throughout the country, but studies show that more than 50 percent of students between the ages of 13-15 have already engaged in some type of sexual activity. In addition, the majority of those teens were unaware of the health risk and impact that unprotected or premature sex can have on their lives. Today, classrooms across America are filled with students that may never marry, are gay, lesbian, or even bisexual, although, it is of utmost importance that educators emphasize abstinence, it is equally as important that school officials consider the needs of all
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