Question

Cody and Lexi have been going out for a long time and have decided to remain abstinent. Which verbal responses would help Cody and Lexi maintain abstinence in this situation? Check all that apply.

a. "Hey, I think we should stop."
b. "Let's go out for pizza."
c. "Well, just this once."
d. "I think I should just go home."
e. "I'm not sure, but if you think it's okay."

Answer 1

Cody and Lexi can maintain abstinence by clearly communicating boundaries, suggesting alternative activities, and removing themselves from tempting situations. Verbal responses like insisting to stop, going out for pizza, or going home help support their decision.

Step-by-step explanation:

Cody and Lexi, who have decided to practice abstinence, can maintain their commitment through effective communication. To help maintain abstinence, the verbal responses that would support this decision are:

• "Hey, I think we should stop." - This statement clearly communicates a boundary and reaffirms their joint decision to abstain.
• "Let's go out for pizza." - Suggesting an alternative activity is a positive way to shift the focus and maintain abstinence.
• "I think I should just go home." - Expressing a desire to remove oneself from a potentially tempting situation reinforces their commitment to abstinence.

The options "Well, just this once." and "I'm not sure, but if you think it's okay." do not align with the goal of maintaining abstinence as they suggest uncertainty or possible exception to their agreed decision.