Comparisons In other Western industrialized nations, the age at first intercourse is the same as in the United States. Nonetheless, countries such as Sweden, the Netherlands, the United Kingdom, and France, have much lower rates of sexually transmitted diseases and almost no HIV among adolescents. She described a brochure that the government in Finland sends out to every 16 year old on his or her birthday. It portrays a positive depiction of adolescent sexuality, talks about responsibility, and provides a latex condom. In my experience, children have an easier time talking and hearing about this than many of the adults in their lives.
Many resources are available to help physicians in communicating with adolescents.
For example, an AIDS education video done by Arsenio Hall and Magic Johnson is available free in local video stores. It has to do with making a plan with them. The art of this is in listening and making them feel safe enough to confide in you and your knowing that you can provide the services they might need. Your turn You can express your views on this article, or other relevant themes, in the Infectious Disease News Specialty Forums. Revised 2 February 1996.