Issue:

Teens are eager to be in relationships but often unprepared to manage their more complex aspects. Teens can be unsure how to handle desires for closeness and touch and yet remain true to a commitment to avoid sex before marriage.

Project:

Create an educational series that helps teens understand that they have a right to:

• feel safe
• have their feelings and ideas respected
• make alternative choices
• communicate firmly and learn to do so in a healthy manner
• wait until married before having sex

Result:

Managing Pressures Before Marriage Educational Series for Teens is based on the internationally recognized Postponing Sexual Involvement Series. The high school program gives teens opportunities to learn skills, such as:

• the warning signs that indicate physical feelings are starting to get out of control
• the difference between being assertive, passive, and aggressive in their responses
• how to use "I” statements to avoid accusing or blaming the other person when there is conflict
• how to avoid acting in ways that they may later regret