Abstinence
From Encyclopedia of Sex and Sexuality
There are many different reasons why people today desist from sexual activity for various lengths of time. Some, raised in religions with stern attitudes toward sexual behavior, avoid partnered sex until marriage; officially, they also avoid masturbation, a claim that is generally not disputed by therapists. In fact, some girls have no recollection of gratifying themselves sexually and the same is probably true for some boys.
It is possible to remain a virgin until one’s honeymoon, and with good information, love, and patience, a couple can make their honeymoon a very happy experience, fulfilling all their expectations. Abstinence before marriage, even long past adolescence, does not harm a person’s sexual health or capacity, either physically or emotionally. Moreover, when a young person is certain that premarital chastity is right and good, commanded and encouraged, it can be a confidence-builder for the lovemaking to come. A debate now rages over whether to provide school children and youths with Condoms or with strong advice to stay away from partnered sex. Perhaps the best solution is a combination of the two. A well-educated youth can carry a condom without feeling forced to use it. Certainly, youngsters should be told that abstinence is not harmful, and that it is the one sure way to avoid pregnancy and Sexually Transmitted Diseases: this is absolutely true and should be clarified to every teenager. Nevertheless, a condom can be kept in a pocket or schoolbag, in case of some rare contingency.
While no Sex Education program or moral instruction will eradicate teenage pregnancy or sex-related disease among adolescents, better sex education, by definition, will produce better results than the ineffectual programs currently provided by so many schools. No sex education program should omit moral teachings or instruction in prudence until a good and stable relationship is possible.
