Adolescent sexuality: A national concern

Abstract

Representatives of national organizations private foundations and agencies concerned with adolescent sexuality as well as health care practitioners and educators media representatives and authorities on sex education and adolescent behavior met at Wingspread in Racine Wisconsin for a conference on Adolescent sexuality and health care: an affirmation of purpose. Rising rates of pregnancy and venereal disease among teenagers were seen as symptoms of deeper problems including 1) the low priority of the adolescent in our society and the generational double standard; 2) the lack of candor and accurate information in regard to human sexuality; 3) the lack of access to medical services including contraceptives; and 4) the influence of a negative attitude toward sex in our society. Affirmative plans of action toward education in the rights and responsibilities for human sexuality were worked out in committees representing vital elements in society: the home schools community churches health services and business and foundations. All can combine in upgrading the dignity of human sexuality.