Journal Articles

Abstract from the Article: "Effectiveness of a Sex Education Program to Delay Coital Debut among Public School Adolescents" by Kristen A. Plastino, Pharm. D., M.D., as undersigned. Co-authors include Alan E. C. Holden, Ph.D., Assistant Professor in the Department of Obstetrics & Gynecology, and Robert S. Schenken, M.D., Professor and Chairman of the Department of Obstetrics & Gynecology at the University of Texas Health Science Center at San Antonio. Adolescent & Family Health, 2009, 4(2), p. 84-93.

Sexual activity is frequent among adolescents, with consequences such as sexually transmitted diseases (STDs) and unintended pregnancy. We evaluated the University of Texas Health Science Center at San Antonio Sex Education Program (UTHSCSA SEP), our abstinence-focused intervention on knowledge, attitudes, and behavioral intentions of 1,118 predominantly Mexican-American middle school adolescents in grades 6-8. We hypothesized higher levels of knowledge of the potential consequences of sex, more positive attitudes towards delaying sexual activity, and increased commitment to abstinence. Students received 10 weekly, 45-minute sessions about the potential negative consequences of sex, methods of preventing STDs and pregnancy, and communication skills to negotiate lowest-risk relationships. We simultaneously conducted adult mentoring seminars for teachers presenting the curriculum and parents of participants, district-wide symposia, and a community-wide media campaign including establishment of a Program Web site. Effectiveness was evaluated from Pre-Test to Post-Test using Chi-Square, T-test, and multivariate logistic regression. Knowledge increased significantly (54% to 67%, p < .01). Attitudes reflected increased beliefs that sex is not a safe activity for teens, abstinence is the most effective means of preventing consequences, and that a person should practice abstinence until in a long-term relationship. At Pre-Test, 54% of participants were committed to abstinence and 67% at Post-Test (p < .01). This change was explained by increased knowledge and more positive attitudes. The intervention significantly increased knowledge about sexual activity and created more positive attitudes and increased commitment to abstinence. Shifts in knowledge and attitudes were significantly associated with intentions to abstain from sex until in a long-term relationship.