Alcohol and other drugs are chemical influences that affect a teen's ability to stick to sexual limits. When alcohol and other drugs are used, clear thinking and good intentions may vanish. Perhaps the most important influence is internal. A teen's goals, fears, self-respect, interests and curiosity affect the ability to stick to sexual limits. The complex and ongoing interplay of these external and internal influences constantly affect a teen's thoughts, feelings and behaviors.
Some influences are positive because they reinforce the limits an individual has set.
Some influences are negative because they encourage an individual to exceed his or her sexual limits. Teens can be supportive and respectful of the sexual limits of others. Support and respect are shown through behaviors such as understanding that no means no, refusing to pressure someone in a vulnerable situation, standing up for others when their limits may seem unpopular, refusing to ridicule another's sexual limit and helping others get away from negative influences. Permission is granted to reproduce for educational non-commercial uses if this message is shown.