Final answer:
Research reveals that the majority of Americans support education about safer sexual practices over abstinence-only programs. A realistic and comprehensive approach to sex education correlates with healthier sexual attitudes and lower rates of STIs and teen pregnancies, contrasting with higher rates experienced in the absences of such education.
Step-by-step explanation:
Changes in sexual activity in the United States since the start of the century have not served to increase the rate of teenage pregnancies. Instead, research indicates that there is growing support for comprehensive sexuality education. According to recent data, 67 percent of Americans believe that educating about safer sexual practices is more effective than abstinence-only education in reducing unintended pregnancies, and 69 percent agree that focusing on safer sexual practices and contraception is better for reducing the spread of STIs.
In addition, sociological research underpins the importance of comprehensive sexual education, reflecting a preference among the youth towards realistic approaches to sexuality rather than outdated abstinence-only curricula. With the majority of college-aged individuals expressing a desire for monogamous relationships, the educational focus has shifted towards facilitating informed and responsible decisions rather than outright avoidance of sexual activity.
Moreover, international comparisons suggest that countries like Germany, with comprehensive sex education programs, tend to have lower rates of teenage pregnancy, further supporting the argument for improved sexual education in schools to promote healthier sexual attitudes and behaviors.