Back to Annual Meeting Page		American Public Health Association 133rd Annual Meeting & Exposition December 10-14, 2005 Philadelphia, PA

Abstract #98908

Karen Fitchette-Gordon, MSA, Education and Professional Development Department, Planned Parenthood Southeastern Pennsylvania, 1144 Locust Street, Philadelphia, PA 19107, 2153515580, karen.fitchette-gordon@ppsp.org and Nylla B.J. Goldstine, Senior Youth Program Coordinator, Planned Parenthood Southeastern Pennsylvania, 1144 Locust Street, Philadelphia, PA 19107.

Positive behavior change can occur when interventions happen over time, are multi-dimensional, and include a strong relational component. Demonstrating change in measurable and objective terms is critical to developing, delivering and funding programs that work.

Youth First is a program delivered in partnership between Planned Parenthood Southeastern Pennsylvania and four elementary and middle schools in Philadelphia. The program has six specific components that are delivered over time by trusted and supportive adults: comprehensive, age-specific sexuality education; leadership development; social services; youth-friendly, accessible health services; professional development and parental involvement.

A longitudinal, controlled evaluation has been conducted with Youth First over a three-year period. The sexuality curriculum has been proven effective and new data strongly suggest that the program overall has been successful in increasing knowledge, attitudes and antecedents to positive sexual behaviors.

Learning Objectives: At the conclusion of the session, participants in this session will be able to

• List components of a comprehensive sexuality education program.
• Articulate aspects of the Youth Development philosophy.
• Discuss the elements and value of the Youth First evaluation.

Keywords: Sexuality, School-Based Programs

Related Web page: www.ppsp.org

Presenting author's disclosure statement:

I wish to disclose that I have NO financial interests or other relationship with the manufactures of commercial products, suppliers of commercial services or commercial supporters.

Recorded presentation