This paper draws on findings from an analysis of interviews with young people aged 14-18 years, to explore the peer influences in young people's informal social networks which can affect their access to sexual health services. The research focuses on the social meanings of a C-Card condom distribution scheme in North East England. Such schemes are…

Grounded theory principles were systematically employed to reveal key differences in pregnancy risk and underlying disparities in contraceptive use in (a) never-pregnant (b) pregnant-terminated and (c) pregnant-continued teenagers. Analysis of 69 semistructured interviews revealed a bicausal model of pregnancy protection that accounted for…

Examined motivations for condom use by adolescent males (n=1,880). About one-third reported using condoms consistently. Found greater consistency of condom use related to perceived costs benefits concerning pregnancy prevention, Acquired Immune Deficiency Syndrome, partner expectations, embarrassment, and reduction of pleasure. (Author/ABL)

To determine what factors contribute to possible pregnancy and birth control usage among a sample of college women, a survey questionnaire was distributed to students who requested pregnancy tests at a university health center. Answers from 140 respondents are reported and analyzed and their implications are discussed. (JL)

Identified variables related to contraception that could be addressed during contraceptive counseling and to aid persons in deciding the most effective contraceptive method within context of an intimate relationship. Used questionnaire responses from 350 college students. Results indicated both general self-esteem and sexual self-esteem were…

Presents a test of the Fishbein model of behavior prediction applied to predict the pregnancy risk-taking behavior of adolescent females (N=244). Analyses of data showed that the Fishbein model of attitude-behavior consistency seems to be applicable to the fertility-related behavior of adolescent females. (LLL)

Analysis indicates qualities of the interpersonal relationship of the adolescent dyad are consistently associated with exposure to pregnancy risk. Certain qualities have a counterbalancing influence on pregnancy risk in that they are positively related to the frequency of sexual intercourse while being positively related to regularity of effective…

Studied the relationship between premarital sexual guilt and contraceptive attitudes and behavior among young single women. High-guilt subjects were significantly more embarrassed about coming to the birth control clinics and were more likely to believe that it was difficult to obtain birth control. (Author)

Presents a theoretical framework for viewing adolescent contraceptive usage. The problem-solving process is used for developmentally examining the competencies that must be present for effective contraceptive use, including: problem recognition, motivation, generation of alternatives, decision making and implementation. Each aspect is discussed…

Sexual behavior, knowledge of sexually transmitted disease and condoms, and condom use was studied among 116 African American and white incarcerated adolescents in Seattle (Washington). Results indicate that these adolescents are at high risk and suggest that programs designed solely to increase knowledge are unlikely to effect behavior change.…

A review of 20 United States studies of adolescent sexual behavior was undertaken to integrate data accumulated over the past three decades. Several methodological incongruities made comparisons difficult, so suggestions are made for future research. Available data suggest a gradual evolution, not a revolution, in adolescent sexual behavior.…

Of the 486 single women aged 13-20 who were tested, the subjects with high self-esteem had positive attitudes toward using birth control pills, were less embarrassed about obtaining contraception, and were more effective and consistent contraceptive users. (RL)

Research findings and theories regarding adolescent contraceptive use are reviewed to propose an alternative framework relying on social learning theory. Environmental context, cognitive influences, and behavior execution constraints are suggested as the foundation for contraceptive behaviors. The behavioral skills teenagers need to use birth…

The relationship of the Contraceptive Self-Efficacy Scale to contraceptive behavior was explored in four female samples: (1) 258 California adolescents, (2) 259 Chicago (Illinois) adolescents, (3) 231 Montreal (Canada) high school students, and (4) 148 college students. Results are discussed in terms of use in research and clinical settings. (SLD)

One hundred Danish adolescents and 133 American adolescents were compared on various aspects of socialization and risk behavior. Overall, socialization was narrower among Danish adolescents, and rates of risk behavior were higher for American adolescents in the areas of driving and minor criminal behavior. Rates of sex without contraception were…