Knowledge, attitudes, and self-efficacy of adolescents associated with sexual beh[a]viors

No Thumbnail Available
Authors
Williams, Deana L.
Advisor
Ryan, Marilyn E.
Issue Date
2004
Keyword
Degree
Thesis (M.S.)
Department
School of Nursing
Other Identifiers
Abstract

The United States has one of the highest teenage pregnancy and birth rates among industrialized nations (Schreiber, 2001). In an effort to reduce the number of adolescent pregnancies, efforts must be directed at understanding the reasons and motivations that affect teenage pregnancy. Knowledge and attitudes of adolescents concerning contraception, pregnancy and condom use is important in formulating educational programs for adolescents. The purpose of this study is to examine knowledge and attitudes of adolescents concerning contraception, pregnancy and STDs, the prevalence of premarital sexual behaviors and condom use and the predictive relationships of knowledge, attitudes and self-efficacy with contraception use and pregnancy. The study is a replication of Wang, Wang, and Hsu (2003). The theoretical framework is Social Cognitive Theory. The sample will consist of 200 adolescents in two high schools that are sexually active. Permission will be sought from Ball State University and participating Schools. The protection of the human subjects will be ensured. This study is significant because findings will provide information for school nurse educators about adolescent behaviors and will provide the basis for future educational programs designed for adolescents.

Collections