Why are teens as a group at particularly high risk for infection with STDs?

As an adult, it is difficult enough to insist on safe sex with a new partner. For teens, development of critical thinking and understanding of consequences is in progress. Peer pressure, wanting to be liked and so many other influences may render what they have learned in class useless. A black and white view of abstinence may work for some. Another possible safety valve would be to encourage both girls and boys to consider the safety of any future partner first and always.