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The 130th Annual Meeting of APHA |
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The 130th Annual Meeting of APHA |
Stuart M. Belle, MPH, Susanne B. Montgomery, PhD, MPH, Leandra P Peters, MS, and Brooke McKnight, MBA, MPH, DrPH. Health Education & Promotion, Loma Linda University, 10970 Parkland Ave, Loma Linda, CA 92350, (909) 558-8382, sbelle@sph.llu.edu
Introduction: For effective program planning and implementation, it is important to assess the impact of social influences on adolescents' level of readiness to participate in teen pregnancy prevention programs, and to identify possible approaches to mitigating negative social influences that limit program efficacy. Aim: The aim of this study is two-fold. First, we will describe trends in adolescent sexual and contraceptive behaviors and associated risk indicators to assess vulnerability within a specific social context. Second, we will examine adolescents' perspectives on being involved in community-based programs dedicated to the success and future of teens, highlighting those factors that may influence their willingness and readiness to participate in these programs. Methods: Using the CDC Youth Risk Behavior Survey, data on adolescent sexual behavior was collected over a three-year period from 1999-2001 among approximately 5,000 adolescents. In addition, a second Local Survey included questions about adolescents' sources of social support and their perceptions of community problems that affect teens. Data sets were analyzed to identify trends in and significant determinants of sexual risk behaviors. Results: The findings will discuss the social influences surrounding observed patterns of adolescent self-reported sexual and contraceptive behaviors. Significant indicators of adolescents' readiness to participate in teen pregnancy prevention programs include their sources of social support, past exposure to and current involvement in sexual risk behaviors, and their expectations and hopefulness for the future. Conclusion: The 'lessons learned' can assist public health practitioners in designing needs-based and relevant programs for better health outcomes among youth.
Learning Objectives: At the conclusion of the presentation, members of the audience will be able to
Keywords: Adolescents, Sexual Behavior
Presenting author's disclosure statement:
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.