Need This Done By March 27, 2016, 11:00 P.m. EST In APA Form
Need This Done By 27 March 2016 2300est In Apa Formatrespond To The F
Need this done by 27 March 2016 2300est in APA format. Respond to the following questions in complete sentences and paragraphs and be 200–250 words in length in MS Word, making sure to follow APA format and cite all references used: What are some of the risk factors associated with sexual activity during adolescence and potential consequences? What are some of the community-based programs that provide services to address premarital sex in adolescence? In your opinion, are these effective? Support your response The following reference may be used: Zastrow, Charles, Karen Kirst-Ashman. Brooks/Cole Empowerment Series: Understanding Human Behavior and the Social Environment. Cengage Learning, 02/2012. VitalSource Bookshelf Online.
Paper For Above instruction
Adolescence is a critical developmental period characterized by significant psychological, social, and biological changes, which often include engagement in sexual activity. Several risk factors are associated with sexual activity during adolescence that can lead to serious consequences. One prominent risk factor is peer pressure, which can influence adolescents to engage in early sexual activity without fully understanding the implications (Zastrow & Kirst-Ashman, 2012). Family dynamics, such as parental neglect or ineffective communication regarding sex, also increase the likelihood of early sexual engagement. Furthermore, socioeconomic status influences adolescent sexual behavior; youth from lower-income families are often more vulnerable due to limited access to education and resources about safe sex practices (Zastrow & Kirst-Ashman, 2012). The potential consequences of adolescent sexual activity include unintended pregnancies, which can disrupt educational and employment opportunities, and increased risk of sexually transmitted infections (STIs), including HIV/AIDS. These outcomes can have long-term impacts on adolescents' health and future prospects (Centers for Disease Control and Prevention [CDC], 2020).
Community-based programs are crucial in addressing premarital sex among adolescents by providing education, health services, and support systems. Programs such as comprehensive sex education in schools, youth empowerment initiatives, and family-based interventions aim to promote safe sexual practices and delay the initiation of sexual activity (Zastrow & Kirst-Ashman, 2012). These programs are often effective because they combine education with skill development, fostering informed decision-making and self-efficacy. For instance, peer-led programs tend to have higher engagement levels, leading to better outcomes in reducing risky behaviors (Eaton et al., 2012). In my opinion, the success of these community programs depends on their accessibility, relevance, and cultural sensitivity, but overall, they represent essential strategies in adolescent health promotion. By integrating education, community involvement, and supportive services, these initiatives can effectively reduce risky sexual behaviors among youth.
References
Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. (2020). Youth Risk Behavior Survey. https://www.cdc.gov/healthyyouth/data/yrbs/index.htm
Eaton, D. K., Kann, L., Kinchen, S., Shanklin, S., Ross, J., Hawkins, J., ... & Wechsler, H. (2012). Youth risk behavior surveillance—United States, 2012. Morbidity and Mortality Weekly Report, 61(4), 1-162.
Zastrow, C., & Kirst-Ashman, K. (2012). Brooks/Cole empowerment series: Understanding human behavior and the social environment. Cengage Learning.