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  • Title: Contraceptive behavior in adolescence: a decision-making perspective.
    Author: Rogel MJ, Zuehlke ME, Petersen AC, Tobin-richards M, Shelton M.
    Journal: J Youth Adolesc; 1980 Dec; 9(6):491-506. PubMed ID: 12336834.
    Abstract:
    Preliminary results of a study of contraceptive behavior among 120 adolescent female clients of 3 clinics at the Michael Reese Hospital and Medical Center in the U. S. were presented. The average age of the respondents was 16.6. 65.5% lived in families supported by welfare and 95% lived in single parent households. 83% were sexually active but the level of sexual activity was low. Most had positive attitudes toward sex and stable relationships with their boyfriends. 75% of the girls were either currently pregnant or were pregnant in the past. 44% became pregnant within 1 year of their 1st intercourse. Among all respondents 33% reported never using a contraceptive and 34% said they always used a contraceptive. 59.6% of the currently pregnant girls reported never using a contraceptive. Major reasons for not using a contraceptive were that they just decided to take a chance, that they were fearful of the side effects of contraceptives, and that they didn't expect to get pregnant. From a cost/benefit point of view the girls tended to feel that the safety risk involved in using the pill outweighed the risks associated with pregnancy. The adolescents had little knowledge of alternative methods of contraception. Most of the currently pregnant respondents felt considerable social pressure to keep their babies. Overall the respondents scored moderately high on self-esteem and reported that they had good relationships with their families. Most planned to complete high school and many planned to get further training. The majority viewed themselves as relatively independent and as active problem solvers. Data on attitudes toward abortion was also provided. Study findings will be used to develop an intervention program.
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