SEXUAL HEALTH Positive Thoughts As more facts surrounding HIV emerge, so do the misinterpretations and rumours. This means that the information that young people are receiving can be very confusing, making it difficult for them to know what to do or whom to ask for advice. Even if some of the youth population know how to technically protect themselves from transmission, they often don't have the social skills to put this knowledge into practice. In this workshop we also address the effects of alcohol and other drug use on young people's behaviour.
		Recent research suggested that up to 70% of the youth population do not have the social skills to discuss 'Safer Sex' with a prospective sexual partner. [NHIPS. 1996.]

Using a Forum Theatre Performance we take participants through a selection of real-life situations, where they can rehearse negotiating skills in relation to personal relationships and safer sex. Positive Thinking looks at the implications of sexual relationships including: teenage pregnancy, HIV/AIDS awareness, attitudes towards sex from the media, parents and peer groups. This programme also aims to promote self-esteem and provides assertiveness training through a series of drama games and exercises.

This programme relates to National Curriculum guidelines at Key-stages 3 & 4.

Sex Education

* Recognise the importance of personal choice in managing relationships so that they do not present risks, e.g. to health or esent risks, e.g. to health or personal safety [Key-stage 3].

* Recognise and be able to discuss sensitive and controversial issues such as contraception, birth, HIV/AIDS, child-rearing, abortion and technological developments that involve consideration of attitudes, values, beliefs and morality [Key-stage 4].

It Also Relates To The Health Of The Nation Targets.

* To reduce the number of unwanted pregnancies.

© Bigfish Theatre Company 1997-2001

Comments or questions? email: bigfishtheatre@x-stream.co.uk