Mrs. Swope Family and Consumer Sciences Columbian High School Abstinence Mrs. Swope Family and Consumer Sciences Columbian High School

What does abstinence mean? Choosing to not to do something. People sometimes abstain from chocolate, cigarettes, meat, alcohol,sex and other things. It may be a temporary or long-term decision You can abstain at any point in your life, even if you didn’t in the past

Respond to the following in writing 1. List at least 3 reasons a person may abstain from having sex. 2. List at least 3 reasons why abstaining from sex could be challenging for a person.

Written response cont. 3. List 4 factors that are necessary to make abstinence work. 4. List 4 factors that could make abstinence fail. 5. If abstinence fails, what information should the person know about?

Reasons for choosing abstinence Personal values, religious beliefs Protect their health, avoid STD’s, HIV, and pregnancy Not in love, not ready Don’t want to jeopardize future goals Haven’t found the right person Want to build a deeper relationship first

Why choosing abstinence could be a challenge Peer pressure, teased, made fun of Fear of rejection Hoping it will prove they aren’t gay/lesbian, experimenting in sexuality Feeling curious about sex Wanting the sexual pleasure Believing they “owe” the other person

What it takes to make abstinence work: Assertiveness, healthy self-esteem Self-control, partner cooperation Being able to openly communicate Positive view of the future, having goals Avoid “tempting” situations Avoid situations that could “cloud” your decision

What could make abstinences fail? Low self-esteem Giving in to peer pressure Not having clear values, goals Not considering the consequences Using alcohol/drugs Being forced or threatened

Should abstinence fail, valuable information Information about birth control Pregnancy tests Symptoms of pregnancy Emergency contraceptive pill STD’s / STI’s

Abstinence puts you in charge of your life Focus on what’s important to you, achieve goals Stay healthy, avoid pregnancy Build healthy relationships based on mutual caring, trust, and respect

You have the right to choose abstinence Set limits in advance Don’t fall for any “lines” Beware of risky situations Go out with people your own age