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With more than $114 million in this year's federal budget, the federal government is favoring sex education programs that are comprehensive and able to prove they can reduce teen pregnancy.One example of this evidence-based strategy has been developed by educator Michael Carrera. In a series of age-appropriate programs, Carrera's approach offers instruction in sexuality, decision-making, and relationships. The programs are intended to be comprehensive, and include features such as a job bank that teaches students about work and personal finances. The programs also provide activities such as art, music, and athletics that are known to delay initiation of sex.
In an independent analysis of Carrera's program, teenage girls were followed during their four high-school years. Among girls who took Carrera's program, 10 percent became pregnant. Among those who did not participate, the figure was 22 percent.
Carrera's program also offers reproductive health care in a comprehensive package of medical, dental, and mental health services. Girls in Carrera's program are not only less likely to become pregnant, they are more likely to use protection against STDs, said evaluator Susan Philliber.
The cost of Carrera's program is about $2,500 per student. Ron Haskins, a Brookings Institution fellow and former advisor to President George W. Bush, said he admires Carrera's success, but is dubious about the ability of communities to implement the program widely.
"I would think there'll be some communities without adequate resources - it'll be very difficult for them to implement all aspects of the Carrera program," Haskins said.
The Friends of AIDS Foundation is dedicated to enhancing the quality of life for HIV positive individuals and empowering people to make healthy choices to prevent the spread of the HIV virus. To learn more about The Friends of AIDS Foundation, please visit: http://www.friendsofaids.org/.
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