DOES ABSTINENCE ACHIEVE HAPPINESS?

In recent times there has been much debate about what is needed by youth to help them navigate a super-sexualized society. There have been suggestions that abstinence programs are ineffective and should be de-funded. Many feel it is useless to try to turn our culture back to a time when the norm was waiting until marriage. Some even believe it is impossible for young people to abstain until they marry.
Abstinence is often cast in a negative light, and viewed by some as a deprivation of something essential for life. Youth may not be told about the positive impact chastity, or sexual purity, can have on their selection of a future spouse, their marriage, and their family, even on their education and career. They may not be told that those who wait until marriage are much less likely to divorce because they learn communication, respect, and self-control, all essentials for a good, lasting marriage.
Young people often feel a lack of fulfillment from the “hook-up” mentality. Many have regrets, and no contraceptive can prevent the heartbreak and emptiness of relationships that “take” rather than “give”. Youth aren’t looking for depression, loneliness, single-parenthood, or the worry of potentially fatal sexually transmitted diseases. What they are seeking is a happy life with someone they respect and want to spend a lifetime with, but they may need help developing the skills to attain this.