Studies Reveal Abstinence Education Programs Delay and Reduce Sexual Activity in Teens
Research continues to support success of abstinence education
Washington, DC (April 22, 2008) — The National Abstinence Education Association (NAEA) recognizes the research from The Heritage Foundation and Dr. Stan Weed that proves abstinence education is the most effective strategy for delaying and reducing sexual behavior in teens.
Today at the National Press Club researchers Christine Kim and Robert Rector from The Heritage Foundation revealed a comprehensive review of 21 studies on abstinence education and its effectiveness. The research concludes that students who received abstinence education had lower rates of sexual activity when compared to youth who did not receive abstinence training.
“The charge that there is no evidence supporting the effectiveness of abstinence programs is not true, " said Kim. “The ratio of studies reporting positive results to those reporting no significant results is three to one. Specifically, 11 of the 15 evaluations of abstinence programs reported positive findings."
Dr. Stan Weed, President of The Institute for Research and Evaluation, also highlighted his 2008 study that shows the rate of sexual activity in Virginia teens who participated in abstinence programs was cut in half. This study was published in the January/February 2008 issue of the American Journal of Health Behavior. Dr Weed will testify before Congress tomorrow at a hearing on abstinence education.
"The research presented today shows that abstinence education is making a real difference in teens' lives. Parents and schools should redouble efforts to encourage youth to make healthy decisions," said Valerie Huber, Executive Director, NAEA. "Despite the sex saturated culture that constantly bombards teens with the false allure of sex without consequences, teens are increasingly drawn to the abstinence message. If Congress truly cares about the health of America's youth, it will put ideology aside and recognize the positive momentum abstinence education is making."
NAEA serves and supports abstinence educators from 43 states who work with more than 1.5 million students across the U.S.
For more information: http://www.abstinenceassociation.org
To schedule an interview with NAEA Executive Director Valerie Huber, please contact Patra Stephan at 202-248-5420 or 202-246-3822.