A Quasi-Experimental Study on the Effectiveness of Abstinence Education in Arizona

LeCroy & Milligan Associates, Inc. was contracted by the Department of Health Services to extend the scope of earlier abstinence evaluations by conducting a quasi-experimental study to assess the longer-term impact of abstinence education on youth behaviors. About 900 8th graders in Pinal County are participating in a longitudinal study on the sexual attitudes and behaviors of youth receiving abstinence education compared with those who do not. Students will receive either abstinence education or another prevention education program during the eighth grade, and their attitudes and behaviors will be measured through self-reports at 6-, 12- and 18-months post-program. The study will assess differences across groups in attitudes, intentions, and behaviors. The final report is projected to be completed in the fall of 2009.