STD Prevention: Behavior Change

Safer Sex - Historical Notes

Types of Guidelines: 3. Simplified Guidelines
Many people are uncomfortable with lengthy discussions of sexual practices. Some are also incapable of differentiation or are unwilling to become rational and calculating in moments of passion. They may therefore ignore any detailed “safe sex guidelines” altogether. However, since they may accept the simple message of condom use, this message deserves to be delived as widely and as forcefully as possible. After all, the correct use of a condom offers protection against most STDs during the most common forms of sexual contact.  If practiced world-wide, it would make an enormous difference. It would greatly slow down the current STD epidemics, including that of HIV/AIDS.

Three samples from a series of large billboard posters sponsored by the German Ministry of Health and Social Security. The simple messages were and are being displayed in public places like city squares, railway stations, and bus stops where they are most likely to attract attention.