For the Strength of Youth and Adolescent Research

Monday, August 15, 2011

I'm so excited to share this!! I'm currently working on an Independent Study class, Adolescent Development. I was studying adolescent intimacy and relationships when I came across some passages that correlate directly with Church standards.

"Participating in mixed-sex activity in group situations--going to parties or dances, for example--may have a positive impact on the psychological well-being of young adolescent girls, while serious dating in couples may have a more negative effect." -Compian, L., Gowen, L., & Hayward, C. (2004). Peripubertal girls' romantic and platonic involvement with boys: Associations with body image and depression symptoms. Journal of Research on Adolescence, 14, 23-47

Now, compare that with the For Strength of Youth guidelines:
"When you begin dating, go in groups or on double dates. Avoid going on frequent dates with the same person. Make sure your parents meet those you date. You may want to invite your dates to activities with your family. Plan dating activities that are positive and inexpensive and that will help you get to know each other. Do things that will help you and your companions maintain your self-respect and remain close to the Spirit of the Lord." "Dating," For the Strength of Youth: Fulfilling Our Duty to God, (2001)


Also, "girls who frequently go out on dates alone with boys lose their virginity at an earlier age than those who date more often in groups." Meschke, L. L., Zweig, J. M., Barber, B. L. & Eccles, J. s. (2000). Demographic, biological, psychological, ans social predictors of the timing of first intercourse. Journal of Research on Adolescence, 10(3), 315-338

The corresponding For Strength of Youth guidelines:
Do not date until you are at least 16 years old. Dating before then can lead to immorality, limit the number of other young people you meet, and deprive you of experiences that will help you choose an eternal partner. "Dating," For the Strength of Youth: Fulfilling Our Duty to God, (2001)

********

I am so grateful for leaders that are inspired (and do their homework!). Also, I am grateful for my parents that encouraged these guidelines in their home. Because of their persistence, I made it to a temple marriage :)

0 comments:

Post a Comment

Lacey Parr All rights reserved © Blog Milk - Powered by Blogger