Just Say No?: Redefining the Foundation of Abstinence Education in the United States
Farnaz Faiaz, J.D., 9 Hous. J. Health L. & Pol’y 97 (2009)
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Part II gives a brief history of the federal funding of sex education in the United States and follows the legislative path that has led to the current system. Part III focuses on the effects of these laws and questions whether they reflect proper governmental pursuits to protect public health and safety. It also explores these initiatives in comparison to other governmental interventions taken in the name of public health. In light of current research and states’ refusals to accept federal funds, Part IV offers proposals for restructuring the purpose and parameters of federal abstinence education funding. Finally, Part V concludes legislators will soon feel pressure to reform current federal abstinence education policies, as neither abstinence-only, nor comprehensive sex education in their current forms have conclusively reduced rates of teenage pregnancy or STIs. A new approach is needed–one that builds on current notions of comprehensive and collaborative sex education and adds outcome-based financial incentives.
