|

Abstinence-Only-Until-Marriage: An Updated Review of U.S. Policies and Programs and Their Impact

John S. Santelli, Guttmacher Institute Leslie Kantor, Rutgers University Stephanie A. Grilo, Columbia University Ilene S. Speizer, University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill Laura D. Lindberg, Rutgers School of Public Health Jennifer Heitel, Columbia University Amy Schalet, University of Massachusetts Amherst Maureen Lyon, George Washington University Amanda J. Mason-Jones, University of York Terry McGovern, Columbia University Craig J. Heck, Columbia University Jennifer Rogers, Altarum Institute Mary A. Ott, Indiana University

First published on Journal of Adolescent Health:

Abstract / Summary

Adolescence is marked by the emergence of human sexuality, sexual identity and the initiation of intimate relations; within this context, abstinence from sexual intercourse can be a healthy choice. However, programs that promote abstinence-only-until-marriage (AOUM) or sexual risk avoidance (SRA), are scientifically and ethically problematic and—as such—have been widely rejected by medical and public health professionals. Although abstinence is theoretically effective, in actual practice, intentions to abstain from sexual activity often fail. Given a rising age at first marriage around the world, a rapidly declining percentage of young people remain abstinent until marriage. Promotion of AOUM policies by the United States (U.S.) government has undermined sexuality education in the U.S. and in U.S. foreign aid programs; funding for AOUM continues in the U.S. The weight of scientific evidence finds that AOUM programs are not effective in delaying initiation of sexual intercourse or changing other sexual risk behaviors. AOUM programs, as defined by U.S. federal funding requirements, inherently withhold information about human sexuality and may provide medically inaccurate and stigmatizing information. Thus, AOUM programs threaten fundamental human rights to health, information, and life. Young people need access to accurate and comprehensive sexual health information to protect their health and lives.  

Topic

United States