Pregnancy, Sex Education and TV

What a marvelously simple solution to the tragedy of teen pregnancy (Editorial, Dec. 14). “Just say no,” our President counsels. Unfortunately, that good advice has been assiduously ignored by kids since time immemorial--even during the Age of Innocence of Mr. Reagan’s youth. What chance does it have in the post-sexual revolution, when sex is out of the closet and on TV?

Young people who spend up to five hours or more a day watching television are subjected routinely to sexual scenes--some 20,000 per year on prime-time network programs. What they see mostly are the pleasures of lovemaking; small wonder that they’re influenced to try it. What they virtually never see are acts of sexual responsibility, i.e., using contraceptives to protect one’s lover and one’s self.

TV’s message to millions of teenagers and soon-to-be teenagers is that lust is not only perfectly acceptable but without consequences. The no-no of the networks is showing how real-life consequences can be avoided.

Planned Parenthood has campaigned vigorously for an end to this irresponsibility. Conscientious depictions of sexual love will not solve the problem of teen pregnancy, but it is one of many answers. Other solutions, such as counseling and the distribution of condoms, are rightly suggested in your editorial. Planned Parenthood’s medical centers are open for these purposes.

But the teen pregnancy phenomenon requires a comprehensive, coordinated approach by our governmental and private institutions. TV, which influences our young people more than anything else, should be leading the way.

JUDITH G. JONES

Judith Jones is president of Planned Parenthood of Los Angeles.