10 Common Characteristics of Effective Curricula¹

Following is a list of the 10 common and necessary characteristics of effective sexual education curricula. The absence of even one of these characteristics appears to make a program appreciably less likely to be effective:

1. Effective programs focus on reducing one or more sexual behaviors that lead to unintended pregnancy or HIV/STD infection. They focus on reducing specific sexual behaviors.
2. Effective programs are based upon theoretical approaches demonstrated effective in influencing other health-related risky behaviors; theoretical approaches that modify other social behaviors carry over to sexual behaviors.
3. Effective programs give a clear message, and continually reinforce that message.
4. Effective programs provide basic, accurate information about the risks of unprotected intercourse and methods of avoiding unprotected intercourse.
5. Effective programs include activities that address social pressures on sexual behaviors.
6. Effective programs provide modeling and opportunities to practice communication, negotiation, and refusal skills.
7. Effective programs employ a variety of teaching methods, designed to involve participants and personalize the information.
8. Effective programs incorporate behavioral goals, teaching methods, and materials that are appropriate to the students' age, sexual experience, and culture.
9. Effective programs last a sufficient length of time to adequately complete important activities.
10. Effective programs select teachers or peer educators who believe in the program and provide training for those individuals.

¹ Kirby, D. (2001). Emerging Answers: Research Findings on Programs to Reduce Teen Pregnancy. Washington, DC: National Campaign to Prevent Teen Pregnancy.