abstinence programs

Avoidance-focused educational initiatives

Abstinence programs are educational initiatives, typically in schools, that promote avoiding sex until marriage rather than teaching contraception or safe-sex practices.

Critics argue they fail to reduce teen pregnancy or STI rates; supporters frame them as values-based education.

The term often appears in debates about sex education policy: The school district adopted an abstinence program over parental objections.

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support groupGathering for mutual encouragement
chastityAbstaining from sexual activity
true love waitsVirginity-until-marriage movement

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Opposites

approach to risk behavior

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Medically staffed drug-use venues

philosophy of human behavior

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Tolerance of behavior others forbid

pragmatism · libertarianism

information provision

abstinence programssafe sex education

Teaching about disease and pregnancy prevention

Family

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Familiarity: Top 500,000
Profile: Mostly American · Timeless · Rated PG