Draw the line/respect the line: a randomized trial of a middle school intervention to reduce sexual risk behaviors.

Objectives: This study evaluated the long-term effectiveness of Draw the Line/Respect the Line, a theoretically based curriculum designed to reduce sexual risk behaviors among middle school adolescents.

Methods: The randomized controlled trial involved 19 schools in northern California. A cohort of 2829 sixth graders was tracked for 36 months.

Results: The intervention delayed sexual initiation among boys, but not girls. Boys in the intervention condition also exhibited significantly greater knowledge than control students, perceived fewer peer norms supporting sexual intercourse, had more positive attitudes toward not having sex, had stronger sexual limits, and were less likely to be in situations that could lead to sexual behaviors. Psychosocial effects for girls were limited.

Conclusions: The program was effective for boys, but not for girls.