Why Abstinence-Only Education Doesn’t Work

Some schools and communities still focus on abstinence-only education, teaching young people to “just say no” until marriage. While this message might sound simple, research shows it’s not effective.

Abstinence-only programs often avoid teaching about contraception, consent, or healthy relationships. As a result, students may remain uninformed and unprepared when they eventually face real-life situations.

On the other hand, comprehensive sex education doesn’t ignore abstinence — it includes it as one option, while also providing practical knowledge about protection and respect. This balanced approach gives young people the tools they need to make their own choices responsibly.

Abstinence-only education fails because ignorance is never protection. Students need honesty, not silence. By choosing a more open and realistic approach, we prepare teenagers for healthier futures.