The development of effective adolescent pregnancy prevention and intervention programs continues to be challenging for public health social workers. Building these programs around theoretical models that have been tested and refined is one way to increase their effectiveness. This presentation will identify theoretical models that can be used to guide the development and evaluation of teen pregnancy prevention programs. These models can be divided into four general areas: 1) Developmental - both psychosocial and cognitive; 2)Perceived Control - locus of control and self-efficacy; 3)Attitudes - intentions and beliefs; and 4) Social environment - social learning. Each of these theoretical models suggests a specific focus for program development and evalution. A summary of recent research reporting the use of these models will be provided. The strengths and weaknesses of each model applied to adolescent pregnancy program development and evaluation will be addressed.
Learning Objectives: As a result of attending this presentation, public health social workers will be able to: 1) Identify four theoretical models that can be used to develop and evaluate adolescent pregnancy prevention programs; 2)Assess the strengths and weaknesses of these model when applied to teen pregnancy prevention program development and evaluation; 3) Apply the results of recent research that has been conducted using these models to their work in the prevention of teen pregnancies.
Keywords: Teen Pregnancy Prevention, Theory
Presenting author's disclosure statement:
Organization/institution whose products or services will be discussed: None
I do not have any significant financial interest/arrangement or affiliation with any organization/institution whose products or services are being discussed in this session.