SEXUAL ISSUES IN CLINICAL PRACTICE FORUM ARCHIVE
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Re: abstinence
Sean M. Benedict · 4/8/00 at 2:00 pm ET
Encouraging abstinence in teenagers is a fine idea. I think some of us are concerned that this "encouragement" will cross over into unhealthy repression, shame, and guilt. The idea that most teenagers are not able to forsee all the consequences of their sexual behavior seems an accurate and valuable observation. Some who argue against sex education are not interested in providing information to help the teenager make a good decision. It is this lack of accurate information that so often is the cause of the concerns you describe. I would hope we have already learned that the "just say no" approach does not work. As far as waiting until marriage, I don't believe that's a good idea. Sexual compatability seems like an important concern when deciding on a life partner, but to each his/her own. It is completely up to the individual. In the future, I would appreciate it if you would qualify your statements. I don't believe "Men do this" and "men think that" constitutes a professional exchange. These are broad over-generalizations that simply perpetuate misunderstandings. Men have a wide variety of knowledge and experiences they can offer their clients. I don't believe we should be dismissed so easily from the discussion.
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