Many young people indicate that being sexually active leads to less happiness, especially in the long run.

• Recently, an extensive survey (conducted by the Associated press and MTV) of more than 100 questions was asked of 1,280 people ages 13-24 regarding the general nature of happiness among America's young people. On issues of sexuality, the survey showed that being sexually active actually leads to less happiness among 13-17 year olds. For those who are aged 18-24, the survey showed that sex might lead to more happiness in the moment, but not in general. Some results of the survey proved to be very disconcerting. While 72% of whites said they were happy with life in general, just 56% of blacks and 51% of Hispanics said the same about their lives. Lastly, 62% of those surveyed said they think they will be happier in the future than they are now (those over 18 years of age were more optimistic). However, many anticipate a more difficult life than their parents had.¹

¹The Associated Press-MTV Poll Conducted by Knowledge Networks, Associated Press, April 16-23, 2007, pp. 1-81.

²Poll: Family Ties Key to Happy Kids, Associated Press, Fox News, August 19, 2007

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