Choices 360: Addressing Sexually Transmitted Diseases in Adolescents Through an Abstinence-Based Seminar

Background: The 2022 report from the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) indicates that approximately one in five Americans is affected by a sexually transmitted infection (STI), with an estimated 68 million individuals living with an STI in the United States. Adolescents aged 15-24 years account for nearly half of all new STI diagnoses annually. In an urban West Texas county, rising STI rates have been associated with inadequate sexual health education and engagement in risky sexual behaviors. Objective: The purpose of this evidence-based nursing project was to improve sexual health outcomes among middle school students by delivering an abstinence-centered educational seminar designed to (a) increase understanding of the physical and emotional risks of sexual activity, (b) enhance students' self-efficacy in resisting unwanted sexual advances, and (c) promote abstinence until a committed, long-term relationship, such as marriage. Methods: A pre-post intervention design was used with a convenience sample of 69 middle school students. Participants attended an abstinence-centered seminar, and pre- and postseminar surveys were administered to measure changes in knowledge, self-efficacy, and behavioral intent related to sexual decision-making. Results: Postintervention survey results demonstrated statistically significant improvements in students' confidence and behavioral intent to abstain from sexual activity (p < .001). Knowledge scores also demonstrated a positive trend following the seminar. Conclusions: The abstinence-centered seminar was effective in improving self-efficacy and behavioral intent among middle school students. Educational interventions grounded in evidence-based nursing practice may contribute to improved adolescent sexual health outcomes. Implications for Nursing: Nurses play a critical role in promoting adolescent sexual health through early, developmentally appropriate education. School-based, nurse-led interventions can enhance knowledge, strengthen self-efficacy, and support healthy decision-making, thereby contributing to the reduction of STI rates in high-risk communities.