| Common Definitions of Virginity and Abstinence May Put Some Youth at Risk |
| Description:
This study was conducted to assess how adolescents and young adults of varying ages, ethnicities, genders, and sexual experiences define virginity and abstinence. Data was used from the third of three waves of a National Institute of Child Health and Human Development-funded study on media exposure and adolescent sexual ... |
| Study Finds that Some “Abstinence-Plus” Programs have Positive Effects on Sexual Behavior |
| Description:
In a follow up effort to their recent study on the impact of abstinence-only-until-marriage programs on HIV prevention among young people, researchers released this study assessing the impact of abstinence-plus programs on HIV prevention and related behavior among young people. For this study, the authors examined existing research on ... |
| Prevalence of Unprotected Anal Sex among Teens Requires New Education Strategies |
| Description:
Although anal intercourse is known to be a risky behavior when it comes to transmission of HIV and other STDs, most messages given to teens about STDs and condom use focus on vaginal intercourse. This study examined the prevalence of anal intercourse and associated condom use rates in an ... |
| Educational Achievement, Not Sexual Abstinence, Predicts Long-term Mental Health in Adolescent Girls |
| Description:
Many studies have focused on the immediate effects of sexual abstinence and behavior on young people’s mental health but it is difficult to ascertain whether the mental health is an outcome of behavior, or vice versa. This study sought to establish a relationship between the sexual behavior of adolescents ... |
| A Different Take on Intimacy: Friends with Benefits Common Among College Students |
| Description:
This article on the phenomenon of “friends with benefits” relationships (FWB) sought to understand the prevalence of these relationships, and motivations behind this behavior, among college students.
FWB relationships involve trust and comfort levels comparable with traditional friendships, while also incorporating the physical intimacy found in romantic encounters. These ... |
| Availability of EC Without a Prescription Does Not Increase Unsafe Sexual Practices |
| Summary
A study released in the July 11th edition of the British Medical Journal Online First indicates that the availability of emergency contraception over the counter does not increase unsafe sexual behavior or decrease use of other contraceptive methods.
Emergency contraception pills (EC), marketed in the United States under the ... |
