This presentation will summarize the behavioral results of 39 studies of abstinence-only programs, sex education programs that discuss contraception, and STD/HIV education programs that discuss condoms. It will examine their impact upon initiation of sex, frequency of sex, number of sexual partners, use of condoms and use of contraception. It reaches several conclusions. First, because of both the diversity of abstinence-only programs and the severe limitations of past research, currently it is not known whether or not abstinence-only programs affect sexual or contraceptive behavior. Past research is not encouraging, but some programs may delay the onset of sex or reduce its frequency. Second, not all sex and HIV education programs have behavioral effects. Third, multiple studies provide strong evidence that some sex and HIV education programs reduce sexual risk-taking behavior, either by delaying or reducing the frequency of sex, or increasing the use of condoms or contraception. Some of these effects are long term. Ten characteristics seem to distinguish effective from ineffective programs.
Learning Objectives: At the conclusion of this session, participants will be able to: 1) Summarize what is known from research about the impact of abstinence-only education programs upon adolescent sexual behavior, including the initiation of sex and other measures of sexual activity and contraceptive use; 2) Recognize the diversity of abstinence-only programs and the limitations of this body of research on those programs; 3) Summarize what is know from research about the behavioral impact of abstinence-plus programs which discuss condoms and/or contraceptives; and 4) Specify the ten characteristics of programs that are associated with behavioral effects
Keywords: Sexual Risk Behavior, Adolescents
Presenting author's disclosure statement:
Organization/institution whose products or services will be discussed: ETR Associates
Select Media
I do not have any significant financial interest/arrangement or affiliation with any organization/institution whose products or services are being discussed in this session.