Strollerderby

Abstinence was "realistic" for me as a teen. In fact, it was realistic for me until I got married mid-way into my 20's. Saying that it is not realistic is essentially saying, "Teens are incapable of controlling their own bodies, resisting peer pressure, or making an informed decision in light of clear evidence." Bullshit. Sure, these things may be difficult, but saying that they are unrealistic or impossible infantilizes teens. Just because one (famous) teen mom says it doesn't mean that it's true.

I think she is talking more about abstinence only education. I was abstinent until I was engaged, and am still happily married and baby free. But I had always been taught to use protection, get on the pill before having sex, etc. And I used the pill and condoms til I was married as a double precaution. Not all kids are taught this, and the fact is they are having sex. Times change. It sucks. But you have to accept it. There was a time when teens did not have sex, people did not get dovorced and you didn't have to lock your door because you felt safe. Its a different world. Education programs need to keep up.

I agree with ChiLaura.  But I also believe in teaching kids about using birth control.  There are going to be a certain number of them who will do it no matter what.  But even you, Keri, assume that if you give a teen birth control and tell them how to use it, they will use it correctly and every time.  Even then, there is a 1% failure rate.  I have a 19 year-old to attest to that.