Description
This article is from the U.C. Davis
FAQ, by David F. Prenatt, Jr. netesq@dcn.davis.ca.us with
numerous contributions by others.
5.4) Where to turn for help with sensitive issues. (U.C. Davis)
By far the most sensitive issues for most college students are issues
arising out of their sexuality. As important as such issues are, a
meaningful discussion of such issues is well beyond the scope of this
FAQ. The good news is that there are a number of highly qualified
people who are ready to offer you expert advice on such topics:
* Rape Prevention Education Program (RPEP) (916)752-3299.
* Lesbian, Gay, and Bisexual Resource Center (916)752-2452.
* Peer Counselors in Sexuality (916)752-1151.
* The House (916)752-5665; 24 hour hotline (916)752-2790.
The media hype surrounding AIDS has prompted more open discussions in
recent years about human sexuality, birth control, and related issues.
Nonetheless, ignorance about such topics is the norm among college
students (much as it is with recreational drugs), and many people who
falsely consider themselves to be well-informed about human sexuality
make simplistic assertions about AIDS, "safe sex," and the use of
condoms. As real and as frightening as AIDS is, it is nowhere near as
contagious as many people seem to think it is. And while condoms can
help prevent the transmission of AIDS, condoms cannot offer any
guarantees of "safe sex."
"Safe sex" is an oxymoron. Condoms frequently fail, even when
used correctly, and very few people use such protection for all of
their sexual activities. Moreover, condoms offer little or no
protection against STDs such as hepatitis, which *can* be effectively
prevented by vaccinations; regular Pap Smears are a *must* for all
women, even those who are not sexually active. Unfortunately, many
college students never find out any of this information for themselves
because of the strong moral overtones that surround most discussions
about human sexuality.
Instead of thinking for themselves, most people rely upon the
simplistic scare tactics and/or false assurances of ignorant and
misinformed authority figures who decry sexual experimentation.
Sexual experimentation is the norm for many college students who are
on their own for the first time. And sexual experimentation can be
exciting and fun. But sexual experimentation comes with physical and
emotional dues. Be prepared to pay them.
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