Researchers at the University of Washington claim students who receive abstinence-only education are at greater risk for becoming teen parents.  Pamela Kohler, the study’s lead author says her research proves that abstinence-only education “isn’t having much effect” and the findings should steer public policies toward comprehensive sex-ed programs.  But Kathleen Sullivan with Project Reality says there is a problem.  The researcher appears to be holding back some information.

“I can’t find exactly what programs the study, studied. They are not really studies.  They are superficial things that are being done for the sole purpose trying to de-fund abstinence programs.”

Valerie Huber with the National Abstinence Education Association says the conclusion that abstinence-only programs are to blame for teen pregnancies is illogical and incredulous.

“When we are looking at abstinence education, we know from as recently as this past month with another study that showed students who are involved in abstinence education programs are about half as likely to initiate sex then those who are not.”

Dr. Gary Rose with The Medical Institute for Sexual Health hopes the study does not distract from what he sees as the best solution; the role of parents.

“All the studies show that 90-percent of teens want a strong dialogue with their parents about sexual issues, and that they want a strong abstinence message.”

The study comes out as Congress is getting ready to consider whether or not to cut abstinence funding for states.