Abstinence
Hear this word Abstinence
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What Is It?
Abstinence means not doing something. If a person chooses not to have sex or not to do sexual activities, they may say that they are “abstinent.”
Abstinence can mean different things to different people.
An Example
Mike tells his partner Beth that abstaining from sexual activity makes him feel most comfortable. Beth says, “Okay.” They talk together about other ways to be close to each other that do not include sex. They agree to do things like holding hands, communicating and laughing together, and spending time doing other activities that they enjoy.
Showing affection while practicing abstinence
What to Know
Every glossary word connects to different parts of the Sexuality Wheel. Explore the information below to learn more.
- Some people who are abstinent from some or all sexual activities may still be in and enjoy being in romantic relationships.
- Some people choose to be abstinent for a short period of time. Some choose to be abstinent for a longer period of time. Some people are abstinent at different times throughout their life. It’s okay to be abstinent.
Think about
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Why might a person choose to be abstinent?
- People abstain from some or all sexual activity for many different reasons. These reasons could be personal, emotional, physical, religious, or cultural.
If someone does not want to do any sexual activities, what are other ways that people can be close to their partners?
- Give hugs.
- Do activities you enjoy together.
- Going out on fun dates.
- Spending time with friends and family members who you both enjoy.
