
Abstinence-only education, a controversial approach to sex education, focuses solely on abstaining from sexual activity until marriage. Proponents argue that it promotes responsible decision-making, reduces teen pregnancy rates, and prevents sexually transmitted infections. However, critics argue that it withholds crucial information about contraception and safe sex practices, potentially leading to unintended pregnancies and STIs. Research on the effectiveness of abstinence-only education remains debated, with varying conclusions on its long-term impact on sexual behavior.