New report: abstinence-only ed “ethically problematic”

[DeclinetoState]

The Society of Adolescent Medicine (http://www.adolescenthealth.org/) has just released (http://releases.usnewswire.com/GetRelease.asp?id=58857) a comprehensive report reviewing government-funded abstinence-only programs. And shockingly, it ain’t good.

James Wagoner, president of Advocates for Youth (http://www.advocatesforyouth.org/), says, "The report reads like an indictment. Abstinence-only is bad science, bad policy, and a blatant violation of medical ethics and basic human rights. Enough is enough. The time has come for Congress to declare an immediate moratorium on federal funding for these programs."



Here are some highlights from the report, which is published in the latest issue of the Journal of Adolescent Health (http://www.jahonline.org/article/PIIS1054139X05004672/abstract):"We believe that current federal abstinence-only-until- marriage policy is ethically problematic, as it excludes accurate information about contraception, misinforms by overemphasizing or misstating the risks of contraception, and fails to require the use of scientifically accurate information while promoting approaches of questionable value."

"Abstinence-only programs threaten fundamental human rights to health, information, and life."




http://www.bushvchoice.com/

:bsflag:

[TechnoPrincess]

Apparently James didn't take his pills this morning, because he sounds like a harpie and has forgotten basic human sense.

How is teaching abstinance only violating anyone's basic human rights? Are there really any teens out there that DON'T know about STD's and pregnancy before they actually get into these classes?:question:

Personally, I think that a lot of these classes downplay the dangers of casual sex and make kids think everything will be fine if they only use a condom. Not to mention the impression it gives these "kids" of the true meaning of sex...or signifigance of it if you will.

Having worked at a college, I was ASTOUNDED at the sheer number of our youth that have different partners everyweekend, if not a different on on each weekend night. Those who abstain from such behavior are considered "weird" or "odd". And then it seems that on one can figure out why STD's run rampant on college campuses....gee let's think about this for ONE MINUTE!

Maybe if more people considered abstinance and chastity for their lives, I wouldn't have to be subjected to seemingly 100 herpes commercials a night. I know I don't need this medication and I'm tired of having my child exposed to the commercials while we're trying to just watch the darn news!!

:soap:

[DeclinetoState]

The left and many educators have no interest in teaching or reinforcing common sense.

[DoctorDoom]

"Abstinence works every time it's tried."
-- Rush Limbaugh

It's very telling that PPFA has been involved in lawsuits against abstinence-based sex-ed. The only "ethically problematic" issue is that abstinence cuts down on the profit from trafficking in infanticide at the abortuaries.

James Wagoner should shove his head back up his arse and resume his coma.

[Riverboat]

Abstinence-only programs threaten fundamental human rights to health, information, and life." Oh, buh-RUH-thuh!

Actually, I'm in favor of abolishing federal funding of abstinence-only programs as well, but not until federal funding of abortions, abortifacients and contraceptives is also abolished. Kind of like gun control. I'll give up MY weapons as soon as all the criminals give up THEIR weapons.

[dPrasse]

Excellent point Riverboat !!

Abstinence works 100% of the time ... contraception fails ...

I know of a couple , both have been "fixed" years ago ... they are expecting a bundle in Feb ....

Gomer Pyle said it best ....

"Surprise surprise surprise !"