7.ICR.3

What does this standard mean a child will know and be able to do?

7.ICR.3.1 Recognize common STDs (including HIV and HPV), modes of transmission, symptoms, effects if untreated, and methods of prevention.
The most common sexually transmitted diseases are caused by bacteria and viruses (a few are caused by parasites). STDs transmitted by bacteria include syphilis and gonorrhea and the leading bacterial STD, Chlamydia (which is the leading STD among teenagers). The most common STDs caused by viruses are HIV, human papilloma virus (HPV), and herpes. The most significant difference between those caused by viruses and bacteria are that bacteria can be treated and cured. Viruses can be treated but not cured.

Currently STDs are epidemic among young people. Teens and young adults account for about 25% of those who are sexually active and more than half of the new diagnoses of sexually transmitted diseases. There are about 19 million new cases of sexually transmitted diseases in the United States each year. Some STDs are transmitted if there is body fluid contact (such as semen or vaginal fluid) with mucous membrane (such as in the vagina, mouth, or anus). In other words, they are spread through intimate contact (vaginal, anal, or oral intercourse). A few of the STDs (herpes and HPV) can be spread through skin-to-skin contact. The two reasons that teens are at greater risk for STDs is the greater likelihood of them having multiple sexual partners and the failure to use condoms.

A variety of symptoms may occur with STDs, but it is important to realize that many cases of STDs have no symptoms. Diseases that are commonly asymptomatic include Chlamydia and gonorrhea. Sometimes a woman will find out years later that she is infertile (not capable of having children) because she was infected with Chlamydia and experienced pelvic inflammatory disease. Symptoms of sexually transmitted diseases include a sore or bump or blister in the genital area, a discharge from the penis or vagina, itching or burning. Because so many STDs have no symptoms, anyone who is sexually active should be honest with their healthcare provider and be tested for sexually transmitted diseases. Early detection is critical, especially if there is a chance of pregnancy.

The best and most certain means of preventing STDs is sexual abstinence. That means no risky behavior. If one engages in oral, anal, or vaginal intercourse, there is a risk of transmission and an FDA-approved method of prevention should be used. For those methods to be effective, they have to be used correctly and consistently (with each act of sexual intercourse).
 * The student will identify the common STDs caused by viruses and bacteria.
 * The student will describe how STDs are and are not transmitted.
 * The student will list symptoms of sexually transmitted diseases, explain which STDs are often asymptomatic, and describe the need for testing.
 * The student will advocate for prevention, including abstinence and safer sex (specifically the use of condoms by those who are sexually active).

7.ICR.3.2 Summarize the safe and effective use of FDA-approved methods of preventing sexually transmitted diseases.
The Food and Drug Administration (FDA) has as one of its primary missions to ensure the safety and effectiveness of medicines and medical devices. The FDA tests health products vigorously to be certain they will work as intended. There are both male and female condoms, though male condoms are more widely used and are somewhat more effective. Male condoms are made of latex (or polyurethane) and female condoms are made of polyurethane. Communication between the partners is important before methods of disease prevention and contraception are selected. High quality latex condoms should be purchased and stored in a cool dry place and used before any mucous membrane contact occurs. Care should be taken to remove the condom carefully from its wrapping. A space should be held at the top as a reservoir for the semen, then the condom is to be rolled down over the shaft of the erect penis. After intercourse, the condom should be held during withdrawal, removed away from the partner’s genitals, and disposed of properly. It is a good idea to wash up afterwards.

The female condom is lubricated and has an inner ring and an outer ring. The inner ring is folded so it can be inserted into the vagina, with the covering over the cervix and the outer ring (and opening) over the labia. Sexual intercourse needs to occur inside the condom. After intercourse, the condom can be twisted to be removed and disposed of properly.

While not 100% effective, condoms are highly effective if used consistently and correctly. Typically the product does not fail, but human error in storage or usage can result in a failure. Certainly communication between partners can enhance the effectiveness.
 * The student will list the FDA-approved methods of preventing sexually transmitted diseases.
 * The student will explain correct use of the male and female condom for disease prevention.

7.ICR.3.3 Recognize that sexual harassment may contribute to sexual abuse and sexual assault and the feelings that result from these behaviors.
Sexual harassment is defined as unwanted and unwelcome sexual advances. There are times when young people may think they are flirting with someone, but if the attention is not desired on the other person’s part, it may be sexual harassment. Sexual harassment may include physical touch, name-calling, teasing, writing notes, showing offensive pictures, gossiping, and telling dirty jokes. The person who is a target of sexual harassment may feel embarrassed, angry, and even fearful. A person’s self-esteem may be lowered and the target may want to avoid the setting in which the unwanted pressure occurs. All students should know that sexual harassment is illegal and may result in disciplinary action if it occurs on school grounds or at school events.

Everyone has the right to feel safe and respected within the school setting. The courts will uphold accusations of “hostile environment” because all children should be able to go to school without uncomfortable feelings.

If a young person who sexually harasses another child is not held responsible for his behaviors, he or she may feel a sense of entitlement to engage in the behaviors again. While most cases of sexual harassment do not lead to assault, it is possible for the behaviors to escalate to sexual assault or other forms of violence.

Sexual assault is any sexual act toward another person. . . whether by force or not by force. . . against a person’s will or while they are not capable of giving consent. Sexual exploitation is using another person without caring about how it affects them. Rape/attempted rape is forced sex against a person’s will. Sexual abuse happens if an adult or older child forces, tricks, or bribes a child into sexual activity. Often the rapist uses pressure or coercion, including emotional and physical threats to get what he or she wants. A person cannot give consent if he or she is intoxicated or if he or she in cognitively handicapped.
 * The student will define sexual harassment, sexual abuse, and sexual assault.
 * The student will identify behaviors and activities that are examples of sexual harassment, sexual abuse, and sexual assault.
 * The student will affirm a person’s right to be treated with respect.

7.ICR.3.4 Use strategies to be safe, to reject inappropriate or unwanted sexual advances, and to report incidences to an adult when assistance is needed.
Sexual assault and sexual abuse are criminal offenses with legal consequences, some with long prison sentences. Abuse is always the perpetrator’s fault and not the victim’s fault—there is no acceptable excuse for victimizing another person. That being said, it is still a good idea for a person to use good judgment, and avoid dangerous situations, and to plan ahead:

Always let someone know the destination and plans.
 * Arrange to have someone available in case of an emergency.
 * Taking a cell phone to a party is a good idea.

One should always be aware of surroundings and avoid isolated areas. In social situations, protective behaviors include:
 * When going to a party, go with a group of friends. Check in with each other during and after the party.
 * Use the “buddy system.” Don’t be afraid to let a friend know if uncomfortable.
 * Be a good friend to a “buddy” at a party. Keep an eye on him or her.

If someone is pressuring a person, that person should:
 * Stay true to personal code of conduct.
 * Lie. If worried about hurting someone’s feelings, it is better to make up a lie and leave than to stay in an uncomfortable situation.
 * Think of an escape route. Look for exits, doors, and windows. Are there people around who can help?
 * Take action. Speak out. Shout “NO” or “FIRE!” (It brings people running.)
 * Kick, scream, or bite if needed.
 * Trust own instincts!

If someone has been sexually assaulted. Hot lines for help:
 * Get away from the assailant – find a safe place.
 * Dial 911.
 * Call a family member or friend you can trust.
 * National Assault Hotline at 800-656-HOPE (4673). This is a service of the RAINN (Rape, Abuse & Incest National Network).
 * NCCASA.net is a website that lists the rape crisis centers for each county (North Carolina Coalition Against Sexual Assault).

Reporting the assault
 * It is the choice of the victim whether or not to report sexual assault.

Why is it a good idea to report sexual assault?
 * Immediate medical attention may be needed including testing for STDs and prevention of pregnancy.
 * Sexual assault is a serious issue. There are trained professionals who can help the victim deal with many of the feelings he/she has not only immediately after the assault, but for a period after the assault.
 * The assailant may repeat this crime if not made to pay a consequence.

Reporting the assault. To the police, everything is evidence. DO NOT:
 * Shower or bathe
 * Throw away any clothes that were worn at the time of the time of the assault
 * Brush or comb hair
 * Use the restroom
 * Brush teeth or gargle
 * Put on makeup
 * Eat or drink anything
 * Clean up the crime scene


 * The student will describe strategies for prevention of sexual assault and abuse.
 * The student will list reasons for reporting sexual assault and sexual abuse.
 * The student will explain what to do if sexually assaulted.
 * The student will conclude that assault and abuse are always the fault of the perpetrator and not the victim.