P J Kelly1, J Morgan-Kidd. 1. Department of Family Nursing Care, University of Texas Health Science Center at San Antonio, 78229-3900, USA. Kellyp@uthscsa.edu
Abstract
OBJECTIVE: To describe social influences on girls' sexual behaviors. DESIGN: Descriptive, exploratory study using interviews with five focus groups. SETTING/PARTICIPANTS: 48 adolescent girls, ages 12 to 16 years, who were confined in a juvenile detention center for a variety of charges. INTERVENTIONS: None. MAIN OUTCOME MEASURES: Girls' perceptions of influences on their sexual behaviors. RESULTS: The analysis revealed three themes: the influence of traditional gender roles, a lack of power in heterosexual relationships, and an ongoing search for romance. CONCLUSIONS: The social context of adolescent girls' lives can promote sexual activity and unprotected sex. Effective prevention efforts must acknowledge the context within which sexual risk occurs and address motivations and barriers in the target population.
OBJECTIVE: To describe social influences on girls' sexual behaviors. DESIGN: Descriptive, exploratory study using interviews with five focus groups. SETTING/PARTICIPANTS: 48 adolescent girls, ages 12 to 16 years, who were confined in a juvenile detention center for a variety of charges. INTERVENTIONS: None. MAIN OUTCOME MEASURES: Girls' perceptions of influences on their sexual behaviors. RESULTS: The analysis revealed three themes: the influence of traditional gender roles, a lack of power in heterosexual relationships, and an ongoing search for romance. CONCLUSIONS: The social context of adolescent girls' lives can promote sexual activity and unprotected sex. Effective prevention efforts must acknowledge the context within which sexual risk occurs and address motivations and barriers in the target population.