Early initiators were less likely than late initiators to have used a condom the last time they had sex and more likely to have had multiple partners in the three months prior to the survey. These findings indicate a need for appropriately timed interventions that reach students before they establish patterns of unsafe sexual behavior. These activities facilitate communication regarding prevention of HIV, other STDs, and unwanted pregnancies. One assignment asks teens and their parents to list and discuss reasons why it is difficult to talk about sensitive issues such as relationships and sexuality, then list ways to make these discussions easier. One activity built into the curriculum teaches the skill of refusal.
Students then receive feedback on their performances.
Members from local community organizations form an HIV-positive speakers bureau. Students also learn about the resources available to them in the community. Homework assignments encourage them to find out about community organizations and local youth services where they can go for more information about preventing HIV, other STDs, and pregnancy.