Teens are taught skills that help them determine healthy relationships
The Tribune
Letters to Editor
August 9, 2007

As the author of the curriculum "WAIT Training - Learning to have the BEST sex" by waiting and preparing for marriage, it is always amusing to read the comments about abstinence education. (Reference July 29 Tribune guest column, "Debate over sex education fraught with fear.")

All the chatter about medical accuracy regarding sexually transmitted diseases, birth control and realistic versus unrealistic expectations of teens being abstinent is interesting. Being in the field of abstinence and relationship education for 15 years, what I have observed is that those who think teens cannot be abstinent will get what they expect.

I also have realized that imparting skills to teens about the science of healthy relationships (what makes relationships work and what makes them fail) is captivating and engaging stuff. It is the motivation, inspiration and skill set that teens need to be able to wait. Teens want the best when they know what the best is!

Additionally, as we teach them the skills to self regulate, we find that they are empowered not only in the choice to say no to early sexual debut but also to drugs, alcohol, overeating, overspending and impulsivity. We do not teach away from pregnancy and disease but rather toward healthy relationships, issues of the heart, and safe and stable family formation. The robust research regarding the health, well-being and financial benefits of a healthy marriage for children and adults is amazing.

So, the debate will continue as to abstinence or birth control. But for the teens and the teachers we train, we are on to bigger and better things.

Joneen Mackenzie, R.N., is executive director of WAIT Training, based in Denver, Colorado.