ABSTRACT
The impetus behind recently developed life options programs seems to have come from several sources. One important factor in the decision to design a program focusing on the dual issues of family planning and job planning was the substantial body of evidence relating teens' reproductive behavior to their vocational and economic futures. Life options programs are intended to help teens avoid the diminished economic status that accompanies early parenthood. A life options program focuses on two of the most critical developmental tasks confronting young people: managing their sexual/reproductive development and behavior and preparing for the world of work. Sex educators are most familiar with the first of those and readily recognize the tools youth need to make responsible sexual decisions. A positive change in attitudes about women working in nontraditional careers was found among boys only, while an increase in knowledge related to pregnancy prevention (contraception and its availability) was found among all participating youth.
