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What's Love Got to Do With It?
Teens speak out about sex By Carma Haley
Worth the Wait, one of the newest programs in American high schools to prevent teen sex and pregnancy, requires teens to sign a card stating they promise to practice abstinence during their high school years. Some teens feel this program is a good idea while others feel it sets teens up for failure.
"I believe that [teens who are involved in the program] are the responsible ones," says Holly, 16, from Springdale, Ark. "I do not think that these [teens] are just saying this or making the vow for the fun of it. This is not something you joke or lie about. I think that they are smart to make this decision. I'm saving myself until marriage, and I'm dang proud of it!"
Mallory still has her doubts about the program. "I think that it is a great idea that teens make a vow to not have sex until they are adults or even married. But what if that vow is broken?" she says. "I had a friend who signed a 'promise card' and then a couple months later had sex with several guys. The ironic part is that she wanted me to sign the card with her -- I didn't sign the card and I'm still a virgin."
Regardless of where teens learn about sex, whether or not they take a vow of abstinence or how they feel about those who are sexually active, one thing is clear: Teens who know what they want and what is the best decision for them are not afraid to tell anyone who will listen -- even parents.
"My parents have always told me not to have sex until I am married," Mallory says. "But I think that sex is something you have to be in control of. No one else can decide for you. I like having that power over something. It is a major responsibility, but if you play smart, you won't get burned."
Maybe parents could learn a few things from their teens.