June 3, 2004

Rep. Honda, high school students study influence of media,
peer pressure on sexual behavior

U.S. Rep. Mike Honda (D-San Jose) recently met with members of the 2003-2004 Student Advisory Committee (SAC) to discuss the influence of media and peer pressure on teenagers and the decisions they make regarding their sexual behavior.

"Young adults are barraged with images in the media and with pressure from peers that can lead to misguided choices in their sexual behavior," Congressman Honda said. "The results of SAC's study can not only help teens, but also can assist school administrators, counselors, and parents in understanding the issues young adults are wrestling with regarding sexual decision-making."

Started by Rep. Honda in the fall of 2001 to identify and discuss issues that affect teenagers and their peers, the SAC focuses each year on a particular topic impacting students in Silicon Valley. Students from schools across Santa Clara County compete for a spot on the SAC.

The 2003-2004 SAC studied the effects of media and societal influences on the choices teenagers make about sexual behavior. SAC members also examined the availability of educational information and contraception to teens, as well as other issues regarding teen sexuality and responsibility.

After seven months researching this topic, surveying their peers, and preparing a presentation and written report on the sexual choices students make, the SAC presented their findings to Congressman Honda. School administrators, local elected officials, parents and other members of the 15th Congressional District also attended the presentation.

This year's SAC consisted of 26 students from Presentation High School, Leland High School, Monte Vista High School, Los Gatos High School, Harker School, Bellarmine College Prep, Leigh High School, Lynbrook High School, Archbishop Mitty High School, Cupertino High School, Independence High School, and Piedmont Hills High School.
A copy of the SAC's final report, "The Impact of Teens Sexual Decision-making," will be available on Rep. Honda's Web site on June 15. Past reports have included "Diversity and Tolerance in our Schools," (2002) and "Teen Mental Health in the Silicon Valley," (2003).

For more information regarding Congressman Honda's Student Advisory Committee, please contact Mariel Caballero in his district office at (408) 558-8085.