Public Health to parents of teens: How can we help you encourage kids to practice responsible sexual behavior?

By participating in a simple on-line survey, parents of teenaged children can let local public health officials know what kind of assistance they want to help them protect their teens from sexually-transmitted diseases and unplanned pregnancies, which may limit educational and employment opportunities.

"The problems associated with teens having sex affect our entire community," explained Southwest Georgia Public Health District Director Dr. Jacqueline Grant. "We want parents to have all the resources possible to help guide adolescents toward choices that will offer them the greatest chance for success in life."

The survey offers a quick and convenient way for parents to express to Public Health their concerns and opinions related to their teenaged children and sexual activity, Grant said. “For example, some parents may feel uncomfortable discussing sex with their children and might prefer to have help. They may recommend having Public Health partner with schools to educate teens about responsible sexual behavior,” said Grant. “The feedback we get from parents will help us develop specific strategies for our community.”

She added that the survey falls within the District’s confidentiality policy. “Our interest is in gathering information, not in identifying individuals. Your privacy is protected,” she said.

To access the survey, go to the District’s Web Page, www.southwestgeorgiapublichealth.org and click on the blue highlighted community health survey link on the opening page. The survey takes only a few moments to complete.

"It is a small investment of time that can yield priceless information," said Dr. Grant. "The bottom line is that there is a strong link between the future success of America's youth and their physical, mental and sexual health."