PARENTAL PERMISSION AND PERCEIVED RESEARCH BENEFITS IN ADOLESCENT STI RESEARCH.

The article discusses the reasons why parents allowed their adolescent children to participate in longitudinal behavioral research on sexually transmitted infections (STI). Over half of the 134 participants cited benefits that include STI testing, positive interactions and sex education. The adolescents were asked to have an annual physical exam, participate in face-to-face interviews and keep 3-month diaries. The study also showed that parents who perceive that the adolescent is at risk are more likely to consent to their participation in STI research.