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“I Believe In Me” - Abstinence-Based Sex Education
STOP TEEN PREGNANCY PROGRAM OF MADISON COUNTY PARENT INFORMATION
Introduction to our program
The Stop Teen Pregnancy Program of Madison County, coordinated through the Madison County Health Department, was established in the 1990’s. Stop Teen Pregnancy (STP) has been dedicated to impart the consistent message to the young people of Madison County that sexual abstinence until marriage is the safest and healthiest decision one can make. The community has come to recognize STP for its role in the reduction of teen births.
Middle school students (in some school districts, this includes 6th grade) are taught that abstinence from sexual activity is the expected standard of behavior for school age children. We emphasize that their sexuality is worth saving and protecting until they are in a marriage relationship. We will promote self-control, good decision-making and resistance to peer pressure. It is believed that children with good self-esteem, communication skills and goals set for the future will be less likely to engage in risky behavior.
Lessons will be taught through lecture, discussion, videos, demonstrations and activities. Much of the material will encourage the student to examine his/her own behavior as well as the behavior of those around them. They will learn about the risks and consequences of unwanted pregnancy and sexually transmitted diseases. The students will come to understand the meaning of, importance of and benefits of developing healthy relationships.
Some topics that are included:
- A young person’s personal sexuality and its value
- Goal setting for one’s future success
- The advantages of abstinence
- The consequences of sexual behavior – mental, physical (including unwanted pregnancy and STDs), emotional, financial & social
- Healthy relationships and dating
- Setting personal boundaries
- Sexual harassment
- The media and peer pressure
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