New sex ed funding ends decade of abstinence-only

[sinkingfeeling]

http://www.msnbc.msn.com/id/39457080/ns/health-sexual_health/

MIAMI — For the first time in more than a decade, the federal government is funding sex education programs that aren't based solely on abstinence. But they're not just about handing out condoms, either.

Beginning this school year, a five-year, $375 million grant is being divided among 28 programs that have been proven to lower the pregnancy rate among participants, no matter their focus. Many programs distribute condoms, but about half also aim to boost teens' academics, get them involved in extracurricular activities and even improve their parents' job status.

"There's a growing realization that we have to talk to young people about relationships. It's not just body parts," said Bill Albert, the chief program officer for The National Campaign to Prevent Teen and Unplanned Pregnancy. "It's saying, 'What are your goals?' and helping young people understand what they need to do to get there."

That theory, which has become popular in the safe-sex community in the past decade, will replace the abstinence-centered talks funded by a Republican Congress in the late 1990s and later under President George W. Bush to the tune of $1.5 billion.

[liberal N proud]

1. This should get the fundies panties all in a bunch

[SidDithers]

2. K&R...

thanks for posting about yet another difference between Obama and Bush, between Democrats and Republicans.

Sid

[Wickerman]

3. Makes sense

Teen Preg rates shot up with the advent of abstinence-only education.

http://www.usatoday.com/news/health/2010-01-26-1Ateenpregnancy26_ST_N.htm

Funding for abstinence doubled from 2000 to 2003, to $120 million. By 2008, funding was at $176 million. Guttmacher is an outspoken opponent of abstinence-only education.

"The focus on abstinence and the shifts in pregnancy occurred about the same time," says Guttmacher's Lawrence Finer.

[Ineeda]

4. K&R

[rurallib]

5. really worth a toast. Less dumb fuckers in America

is a very good thing.