Would it help you understand my position better if I explained that for me it is not so much a matter of values as one of what I believe is conducive to mental health. Sure, birth control is out there, but are there not a lot of people who don't use it for one reason or another? I just don't believe that most 15 year-olds are ready to make that type of "informed decision" about sexuality, any more than a three year old can make an "informed choice" about whether to have milk and cereal for breakfast or to have candy. Of course, we can't prevent teens from having sex, but with a message that discourages it, we can deter many. Also, I think we need to look at our prime-time sitcoms, such as Dharma and Greg, which are nothing but half-hour long parades about how much fun sex is. Sex is not a bad thing, but I think the way it is promoted in the media, kids are continually bombarded with the "do it" message. It becomes a social expectation, and lots of teens (both sexes) would just as soon not but give in to what they think is expected. I know all too well from the Drug Wars that fear tactics and threats won't do it, but what might make a difference is to ENCOURAGE abstinance through giving teens the verbal tools to say no, to make it fashionable to say no, and to give teens something else to think about. I know our community is pathetic when it comes to providing organizations,activities and events specifically for teens.
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