Why Are Abstinence-Only Programs Dangerous for Lesbian, Gay, Bisexual and Transgender Youth?
The current focus on abstinence-only prevention campaigns, while worth continued study for certain populations, is not meaningful to the LGBT community. Same-sex couples cannot get married in 49 out of the 50 states and therefore, abstinence only until marriage is an unreachable goal and means nothing to the very population that needs to hear prevention messages. To continue to advocate such a policy without implementing prevention programs directed to the LGBT community is highly irresponsible and will only lead to further HIV infections. A discussion of the importance of abstinence must be coupled with comprehensive sexuality education. With nearly two-thirds (63 percent) of teens in the United States having had sexual intercourse by the time they are 18, it is vital to provide them with information to protect themselves. Such discussions must include information on methods of reducing risks, including use of condoms and other birth control methods. While abstinence-only programs may
