The 131st Annual Meeting (November 15-19, 2003) of APHA

Abstract #55143

Melody S. Madlem, PhD¹, Cathy Bambrick, MS, RD², Erin D. Fishburn, BS³, Samantha Garza, BA³, Jani Iverson, MS³, and Mary Pellicer, MD². (1) PEHLS, Central Washington University, MS 7572, Ellensburg, WA 98926-7572, 509 963 1971, madlemm@cwu.edu, (2) Clarity Consulting, 732 Summitview #564, Yakima, WA 98902, (3) Planning & Development Department, Planned Parenthood of Central Washington, 208 N. 3rd Avenue, Yakima, WA 98902

Teen pregnancy rates are steadily dropping across the country. In Yakima County, Washington, teen pregnancy rates in the Hispanic community continue to rise. Studies are available that explore Latinas? and other females? perceptions of prevention. Few studies explore Hispanic males and their perceptions. Using both qualitative and quantitative methods, researchers explored perceptions of pregnancy prevention and sexuality education in Hispanic teens and their parent(s). Researchers conducted 22 focus groups with Hispanic adolescents, parents, pregnant and parenting teens, and gatekeepers in Yakima County, Washington. Each focus group participant also completed a sexuality knowledge survey. Following the Developmental Assets Model, researchers also explored perceptions of community assets, future goals, and personal activity. This research is being used to better address the unique needs of the Hispanic community for appropriate teen pregnancy prevention services. Once Hispanic male perceptions are discovered and blended with female perceptions, a more comprehensive approach to the problem can be developed and implemented.

Learning Objectives:

Participants in this program will be able to:
• Describe at least five perceptions held by Hispanic male teens and Hispanic Male adults that contribute to teen pregnancy.
• Compare and contrast perceptions of teen pregnancy prevention methods between and among Hispanic male teens and Hispanic male adults.
• Compare and contrast perceptions of teen pregnancy prevention methods between Hispanic Male and Hispanic female teens.
• Compare and contrast perceptions of teen pregnancy prevention methods between Hispanic female parents and Hispanic male parents.
• List five potential program planning objectives that are specific to Hispanic males in building a community-based pregnancy prevention program.

Keywords: Hispanic Youth, Pregnancy

Presenting author's disclosure statement:
I have a significant financial interest/arrangement or affiliation with any organization/institution whose products or services are being discussed in this session.
Relationship: This project was funded by a grant from the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) contract number U88/ccu012384.