The following sections of this BookRags Literature Study Guide is offprint from Gale's For Students Series: Presenting Analysis, Context, and Criticism on Commonly Studied Works: Introduction, Author Biography, Plot Summary, Characters, Themes, Style, Historical Context, Critical Overview, Criticism and Critical Essays, Media Adaptations, Topics for Further Study, Compare & Contrast, What Do I Read Next?, For Further Study, and Sources.
(c)1998-2002; (c)2002 by Gale. Gale is an imprint of The Gale Group, Inc., a division of Thomson Learning, Inc. Gale and Design and Thomson Learning are trademarks used herein under license.
The following sections, if they exist, are offprint from Beacham's Encyclopedia of Popular Fiction: "Social Concerns", "Thematic Overview", "Techniques", "Literary Precedents", "Key Questions", "Related Titles", "Adaptations", "Related Web Sites". (c)1994-2005, by Walton Beacham.
The following sections, if they exist, are offprint from Beacham's Guide to Literature for Young Adults: "About the Author", "Overview", "Setting", "Literary Qualities", "Social Sensitivity", "Topics for Discussion", "Ideas for Reports and Papers". (c)1994-2005, by Walton Beacham.
All other sections in this Literature Study Guide are owned and copyrighted by BookRags, Inc.
Webster's Dictionary defines abstinence as "voluntary refraining" from particular behaviors. Many sexuality educators argue that a key goal of adolescent sex education is helping to postpone sexual intercourse until the individuals involved are physically and emotionally ready for mature relationships including the associated consequences. Abstinence is among the topics most often covered in educating individuals, and families, along with sexually transmitted diseases, including AIDS. Found to be effective in encouraging the postponement of sexual intercourse are the development of strong interpersonal skills and self-esteem. Individuals are encouraged to accept responsibility for their bodies and actions, and they are urged to avoid situations that could lead to a lack of self-control, such as those involving drug or alcohol use. A peer group that shares and respects such values is also helpful. Commitment to abstinence, proponents argue, allows for peace of mind and freedom from worries about unwanted pregnancy, birth control, sexually transmitted diseases, and the emotional stress of failed relationships.
Studies have found that 10% of American teenager girls become pregnant each year and more than 80% of those who give birth and keep their babies end up on welfare. Three million new cases of sexually transmitted diseases are documented annually in the teen population, and up to 29% of sexually active girls are diagnosed with chlamydial infections. However, studies have also shown that more than half of American teens refrain from sexual activity until they are at least 17. Moreover, by the time they reach the age of 20, 20% of boys and 24% of girls have not had sexual intercourse. The Sexuality Information and Education Council of the United States (SIECUS) cites a key goal of comprehensive sexuality education is to help teens postpone sexual activity until they are ready for mature relationships.