There are those who hope adolescents will postpone sexual involvement at least until their cognitive development has caught up with their physical development. And still others realize adolescents may be sexually active prior to wedlock and encourage them to use appropriate contraception to prevent not only pregnancy, but the spread of sexually transmitted diseases. No one understands this dilemma better than parents. The input of youths is essential to the development of the Community Action Team. Teens experience pressures from their boyfriends or girlfriends and their peers, as well as from the larger societal context to engage in risky behaviors such as sexual involvement.
Society sends conflicting messages to youths on a regular basis.
At home and at school, youths are taught to abstain or at least to postpone sexual involvement. Many television shows portray characters who have not chosen to postpone sexual involvement. Youths are experts on what they are experiencing and feeling and have the opportunity to provide the Community Action Team with insight to their unique perspective. Communities should be creative in their efforts to develop Action Teams. Involving new people and agencies will expand the knowledge base and commitment of the group.