5095.1: Wednesday, November 15, 2000 - 12:35 PM

Abstract #4400

TAPS: teens avoiding pregnancy and sex (eyes wide open & legs wide shut)

Barbara Lacerenza, MS, Maureen Ortiz, MA, and Laura Auch, MA. Phoenix High School, 10100 Finch Avenue, Cupertino, CA 95014

The State of California provided $20 million in the form of the Community Challenge Grant Program to reduce the number of teenage and unwed pregnancies, reduce the number of children who grow up in fatherless homes, and promote responsible parenting and the involvement of the father in the support of his children. As a grant recipient, the teen parenting program of the Fremont Union High School District implemented the TAPS (Teens Avoiding Pregnancy and Sex) program. This innovative program relies on the power of peer outreach to eliminate high-risk sexual behavior amongst high school teens. The coordinators of this program believe that young people need to enjoy their adolescent years without fear of sexually transmitted disease, pregnancy, and the stresses associated with adult behavior. Key program elements include the "three R's" - respect, responsibility, and relationships. TAPS takes a two-prong approach. One element includes students from the teen parent program visiting each local high school where they tell their stories and share the consequences of engaging in early sexual behavior. The second element focuses on high-risk male students. In a male-only setting, open and frank conversations are fostered that challenge young men to confront their own prejudices and attitudes regarding females, sex, and sexuality. Together, the power of positive peer pressure and the reality of diminished dreams strikes home with any teen audience. Teenagers, by choosing abstinence, keep choices and options open for a healthier and more promising future. Health professionals and educators will enjoy this entertaining presentation.

Learning Objectives: At the conclusion of the session, the participant will be able to: Understand the five main reasons why adolescent girls don't say no to sex. Replicate a program that builds male responsibility and female restraint. Reduce the number of teenage and unwed pregnancies in your community

Keywords: Teen Pregnancy Prevention, Decision-Making

Presenting author's disclosure statement:
Organization/institution whose products or services will be discussed: None
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.

The 128th Annual Meeting of APHA