The Herald-News - News Story

Looking beyond the stats: The Edge informs teens of the emotional impact of casual sex

By the time most teenagers graduate from high school, they have heard the statistics on possible effects of pre-marital sex, including pregnancy and sexually transmitted diseases.

But one thing they don't always learn is how it can affect the emotions.
Connie Arnold, education director for the Women's Care Center program The Edge, spoke to the Rhea County Health Council on Wednesday about this often-overlooked consequence of pre-marital intercourse.

The Edge is an educational program that equips sixth- through ninth-grade students in Rhea County and surrounding areas with knowledge and support to abstain from risky behaviors such as pre-marital sexual activity.

"We desperately want to help teens," Arnold told the council.

For her presentation, Arnold borrowed information from campus counselor and author of "Unprotected" Dr. Miriam Grossman. Arnold explained how, since the 1990s, casual and "safe" sex with multiple partners has become the norm for teenagers and college-age individuals.

What many young women and men don't realize, she said, is that the pituitary gland releases certain chemicals during intercourse that promote emotional bonding and trust.

For women, the chemical is called oxytocin. It is the same hormone that forms strong bonds with their babies.

"Even a 20-second hug promotes oxytocin," said Arnold.

In men, the hormone vasopressin is involuntarily triggered when they engage in sexual intercourse, which is similar, but not as strong as oxytocin.

In addition, the compound dopamine is emitted while engaging in risky behaviors such as casual sex, causing the person to want to do it repeatedly in order to feel a similar rush.

When those feelings of trust and bonding are broken, many young people - women especially - fall into depression and other related problems.

Knowing and understanding the biochemistry of attraction only goes so far, said Arnold.
Parents and other concerned adults should also discuss the emotional aspects of pre-marital sex with youth.

"Teens are still learning, and they still need our input," said Women's Care Center Executive Director Lenita Sanders. "They'll listen."

Arnold noted that according to statistics, 90 percent of high school students today want society to tell them a risk-avoidance message. She said part of that message could be to encourage positive dopamine experiences such as camping, traveling and rock climbing.

She also stressed the importance of adults believing that young people can make wise decisions and guiding them toward those choices.

"We need to pour into their lives support, encouragement and truth," said Arnold.

The Edge is located at the Women's Care Center at 285 Main Street in Dayton. More information about the program can be found by calling 775-0019 or visiting www.TheEdgeOnLife.org.

Michelle Friesen can be reached at michelle.friesen@rheaheraldnews.com.