Adolescent Females and Decisions about Sexual Health: A Qualitative Approach

Abstract

Very little qualitative research has been done in the area of adolescent sexual health and decision-making. An array of national, state and local literature exists to show how dismal the statistics are in terms of teen pregnancy, infant mortality and sexually transmitted diseases, including HIV. But what is not understood is how adolescents make decisions related to their sexual health. Five low-income adolescent females who resided in inner-city Flint, Michigan, ages 15-17, obtained as a convenience sample from an area home care maternal support services population, were interviewed using a loosely structured set of predetermined questions to elicit information about sexual health and decision-making. Responses were audio-taped, transcribed and compiled into data analysis tables using a phenomenological approach. The following nine patterns and themes were identified: communication about sexual behavior, decision-making related to sexual behaviors, plans for future education, knowledge deficit related to sexual health in general, peer pressure related to sexual activity, religion and its role in decisions, self-esteem as identified by non-verbal communication, trusting sex partners, and values in relation to decision-making. Participants did not appear to know how to make informed decisions. They did not decide purposefully about their sexual health. It just happened. The results are an important basis for further research because healthcare providers need clearer information on components of adolescent decision-making about sexual health before meaningful education and intervention can occur.