Pure & Simjple Choice II Premier a Wichita Blockbuster

Pure & Simple Choice II, produced by Pure & Simple Health Education, Inc. and Alexander Video Productions, made its premier debut at the Warren Theatre in Old Town on Saturday, August 20th. The diverse audience was wowed by the story line and the live appearance of the actors and producers. We were pleased with the great turnout and the many positive comments given by the movie goers. Be watching for Pure & Simple Choice II at a site near you! To schedule the new curriculum for teens or fomr more information, call 216-688-0840.

      

The Internet: Friend or Foe?

Today, while reading the dozens of emails that I typically receive daily, I came across an article about pornography addiction and how it impacts lives of both youth and adults.  Pornography is easily accessible to all through the internet and poisons the minds of those exposed to it.  It gives viewers a self-centered, distorted view of sexuality.  It alters attitudes, emotions, self-image, self-esteem, and one's core beliefs for life.  It affects both males and females equally, but in different ways.  It discourages respecting oneself and others and encourages misusing others for personal satisfaction.  It destroys relationships, marriages, and families. 

July 11 – August 7, 2011 is the "Pornography Harms" National Awareness Campaign.  Please become aware of and carefully think about what you are putting into your brain through your eyes and ears.  It does affect the way you think about yourself and others and the choices you make!  Parents, take the time to guard your children as much as possible from pornography by setting healthy boundaries, discussing the harm that pornography causes, listening to their questions and concerns, and setting a good example of self-control by avoiding exposure to pornography yourself. 

For more information, check out "Top 10 Internet Safety Tips" and other helpful information at www.pornharms.com and www.moralityinmedia.org .  For helping youth who have been exposed to pornography and for youth and adults who are dealing with pornography addiction, there are resources available. 

So, is the internet a friend or foe?  It's a lot like fire; it all depends on how it's used - for good or for harm.  To make healthy choices for internet use, it takes education, self-control, and positive reinforcement, pure and simple.

Sandy Pickert, RN, MPH

Executive Director

Pure & Simple Health Education, Inc.

Effects on Self Esteem

Effects on Self-Esteem and Academic Performance on Adolescent Decision-Making: An Examination of Early Sexual Intercourse and Illegal Substance Use"
Journal of Adolescent Health Vol. 47; No. 6: P.582-590 (12..10):: Stephanie B. Wheeler, MPH, PhD

The current study sought "to determine whether higher self-esteem and higher academic performance among youths reduced the likelihood of early sexual intercourse and illegal substance use."

Reasons to Wait to Have Sex

What Do You Believe?
Young people get their information about sex and relationships from a variety of sources. These sources often conflict with more traditional ideas about marriage, family, and sexual abstinence. With so many influences bombarding youth today, it is easy to mistake myths about sex with facts. This may create a risk of sexual consequences that can affect both immediate and long term futures. If you have questions about sex, ask someone you trust, like a parent, teacher, or other reliable source. The information is out there and you are taking a gamble with your future if you do not learn the facts and understand the dangers.