Sexual health communication patterns of younger versus older teens

As South Carolina’s teen pregnancy rates are higher than those nationally it is important to explore possible protective factors, specifically communication behavior. Previous research has documented that sexual activity is different for younger versus older teens, but less research has examined sexual communication behaviors in the same manner. As such, the purpose of this study was to assess younger (< 15 years) vs. older (16 -19 years) teens’ views on talking about sex and birth control and their level of comfort in discussing these topics. The methodology consisted of guided questionnaire completion with 619 teens within two counties in South Carolina (42.9% female, 66% Caucasian). Although not significant by age group, most teens (62.9%) reported talking to a parent about sex or birth control (< 15 yrs - 63.77%;  > 15 yrs. - 62.66%); however, there were differences by age group for those reporting they talked to another adult about sex or birth control (< 15 yrs. - 45.99%;  > 15 yrs. – 55.49%, p < .05). Trends in the data indicated that as teens aged, they talked to parents less (both genders), physicians less, and teachers less. There was no significant difference between younger and older teens in regards to comfort level in discussing sex and birth control.  These results seem to indicate that teens are interested in seeking sexual health information but whom they seek information from varies by age.