Squeamish

I recently attended an Adolescent Health Task Force for work. The Task Force was composed of two subcommittees; teen pregnancy and STD's. The STD subcommittee reported that they had recently drafted a proclamation that they had hoped Governor Hunstman would for support and education. They were upset that he refused to sign the document because it talked about sex. I was taken aback myself, understanding the growing prevalence and problem in Utah... Yes, in Utah. The discussion then led to the "culture" shying away from the subject. I interjected, suggesting that more education should be given to the parents on how to talk to their children about STD's and pregnancy prevention. I was quickly shut down, assuring that classes had and continue to be provided, but with very poor attendance. "Parents just don't want to talk about sex to their children," they'd say. My opinion was in total aggreeance, but the attitude that followed made me leave the meeting with a sour taste in my mouth. The "problem" very quickly turned to the LDS belief system rather than the actual STD's and teen pregnancy. "Abstinence should not be the teaching method.... it should be prevention," they continued to say.

I agree that many LDS do not do a very good job of educating their children about drugs, STDs, sex, and many other "unpleasant" things. But there are also many who are not of our faith that do an awful job of educating their children as well. Some LDS may believe if they just teach them the principles of the gospel, that will take care of it. Some also think that it is "covered" in school, so they won't have to discuss it at home. It's a delicate topic, but crucial to discuss with children. There is no room for being squeamish!

I guess I just get tired of the the attitude that "if we get rid of the Mormons, the problem will go away."

I'd love to hear your opinions.... Ton Loc and I had a great discussion the other day about this an she had some great insights to share from her upbringing.