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Parental communication as a protective factor in increasing condom use among minority adolescents

Authors :
Peggy B. Smith
Ruth S. Buzi
Maxine L. Weinman
Source :
International journal of adolescent medicine and health. 21(1)
Publication Year :
2009

Abstract

The purpose of this study was to examine ethnic differences in risk behaviors among adolescents who attended family planning clinics and to evaluate the impact of parental communication regarding sexual topics on adolescent condom use. The sample for this study included 697 black and Hispanic female adolescents ranging in age from 13-22 years. Ethnic differences were found in sexually transmitted infection rates, number of sexual partners, and condom use. Although black adolescents were more likely than Hispanic adolescents to report recent condom use, Black adolescents reported higher rates of sexually transmitted infections and more sexual partners. Black adolescents reported more parental communication about sexual topics than Hispanic adolescents. Parental communication was associated with increased condom use. The results of this study emphasize the importance of parental communication in risk reduction among adolescents. As ethnicity emerged in the study as a significant factor, interventions aimed at increasing parent-adolescent communication will have to be tailored to address the needs of specific ethnic groups.

Details

ISSN :
03340139
Volume :
21
Issue :
1
Database :
OpenAIRE
Journal :
International journal of adolescent medicine and health
Accession number :
edsair.doi.dedup.....1cb253b6315ef845dde462e204fd6f9e