Grades or Ages: Grades 7-9. Subject Matter: Health Education (includes chapters covering the following: (a) nutrition, (b) sensory perception, (c) dental health, (d) disease prevention and control, (e) smoking and health, (f) alcohol education, (g) use and misuse of chemical substances, (h) identity and human sexuality, (i) environmental health,…

Learning activities which would supplement those found in the curriculum resource handbook, "Learning Laboratories for Unemployed, Out-of-School Youth," which are useful for the health teacher are presented. Activities suggested concern: (1) Community drug survey, (2) Physician resource on drug use, (3) Physical and psychological harm, (4)…

This report presents interim findings from an independent, federally funded evaluation of the abstinence education programs authorized under the Personal Responsibility and Work Opportunity Reconciliation Act (PRWORA) and defined under Title V, Section 510 (b)(2)(A-H) of the Social Security Act. The report draws heavily on 4 years of…

There is an extensive body of research on the factors that are associated with reproductive health, focusing on factors within the adolescent as well as within the various components of the adolescents environment. This paper presents a selective review of the research pertaining to each layer of the adolescent's ecosystem. Emphasized are (1)…

Studies the effectiveness of an educational presentation and the influence of extreme attitudes toward gay men and lesbians on adolescent learning and retention of information about AIDS and HIV transmission. Finds (1) significant increases in knowledge and (2) students with extreme positive attitudes toward gay men and lesbians learn more than…

Examined high-risk sexual behavior in adolescents (N=212) involved in juvenile justice system. Found that youth were at high risk for unintended pregnancy, Acquired Immunodeficiency Syndrome and other sexually transmitted disease. Compared to national norms, sample reported very early mean age at first intercourse and high rate of pregnancy. Most…

Discusses curtailing the human immunodeficiency virus (HIV) by helping people reduce high-risk sexual behavior. Reviews research in the relationship contexts of sexuality, including variations in monogamy, condom use in affectionate versus casual relationships, sexual communication, and coercion. Notes policy and training issues related to human…

Recent statistics concerning teen pregnancies and sexually transmitted diseases are compelling reasons for reaching kids before they become sexually active. Comprehensive K-12 programs are essential, despite conflicts over abstinence, "abstinence-but," and safer sex approaches. Adverse program criticism can be diffused if administrators…

The double-bind message given women about preventing human immunodeficiency virus (HIV) infection suggests that, if a partner will not use a condom, the woman should use a spermicide. The debate about the protection offered by spermicides is reviewed, and research on prevention effectiveness is urged. (SLD)

AIDS is a genuine concern for young schoolchildren, as a significant number begin having unprotected sex before completing elementary school. The most effective sex-education programs stress delaying the age of first intercourse and adopting safe sexual practices. Principals' supportive behaviors and prevention education tips are discussed. (MLH)

Studies family structure and function and their association with knowledge and attitudes toward sexuality, contraception, and sexually transmitted diseases (STD) in student and adolescent factory workers. Finds female workers at higher risk for unwanted pregnancies and STDs. Factors associated with knowledge and attitudes included age, schooling…

A study into the relevance of cultural factors in predicting condom-use intentions among Antillean migrants in the Netherlands is described in this article. The association between the intention to use condoms with a new sexual partner and a perceived taboo on discussing sex, beliefs about sex education and machismo beliefs on gender and power…

Until recently, teen pregnancy and birth rates had declined steadily in the United States in recent years. Despite these declines, the United States has the highest teen birth rate and one of the highest rates of sexually transmitted infections (STIs) among all industrialized nations. To help young people reduce their risk for pregnancy and STIs,…

Until recently, teen pregnancy and birth rates had declined in the United States. Despite these declines, U.S. teen birth and sexually transmitted infection (STI) rates remain among the highest in the industrialized world. Given the need to focus limited prevention resources on effective programs, Advocates for Youth undertook exhaustive reviews…

This book is based on the premise that sexual expression is a way for people to show affection and love for one another. The book is divided into six chapters that cover topics related to sexuality and growing up. The sections in each chapter contain questions that preteens and teenagers typically ask and provide clear, unambiguous, and…