Tamar Lewin

In the following viewpoint, Tamar Lewin, a staff writer for the New York Times, reports that teenagers are changing their sexual practices to protect themselves against the AIDS virus. Lewin writes that after being taught for years about the dangers of sexually transmitted diseases and AIDS, teens view vaginal intercourse as a dangerous behavior that requires an emotional commitment. However, much to the alarm of sex educators, teens consider oral sex to be a safe alternative to intercourse—and not as intimate—and do not take precautions against HIV.

As you read, consider the following questions:

1. What percent of teens polled in 1994 had had oral sex, according to a study cited by Lewin"

2. According to the author, how has the media contributed to the casual acceptance of oral sex"

3. What...