SUMMARY

This is a collaborative school- and community health centers-based sex and contraception education intervention for teens between the ages of 13 and 19 years. The 12- to 15-hour pregnancy prevention program begins with two large-group, lecture format presentations covering reproductive physiology, contraception methods, and contraceptive effectiveness. During the remaining four sessions, students participate in small group discussions that are designed to help teens: (1) understand and personalize the risks and consequences of teenage pregnancy; (2) develop and practice the skills that will make abstinence an easier decision to implement; and (3) become more knowledgeable regarding contraception. The sessions include games, role plays and trigger films that encourage group discussion. A field study of the intervention was conducted in both rural and urban communities in Texas and California. Teens of diverse ethnicities recruited from different agencies and schools participated. Participation in the program was especially beneficial to males, leading to a delay in the onset of sexual activity among male virgins, and to the use of more effective contraception among male non-virgins.

SUITABLE FOR USE IN

Teen Talk can be implemented in community-based organizations, schools and school districts, or as a collaboration between community organizations and schools.

ORIGINAL INTERVENTION SAMPLE

Age, Gender
The original sample included male and female students between the ages of 13 and 19: 29% were ages 13-14; 67% were ages 15-17,4% were ages 18-19.

Race/Ethnicity
The original sample population was composed of the following: 53% Latino; 24% African-American; 15% White; and 8% other.

PROGRAM LENGTH

This program is designed to last a total of 12-15 hours. The program schedule is relatively flexible and can be adjusted to suit the particular site. However, it is recommended that the program be given over a span of two to three weeks: the initial lectures in two 2-hour sessions; and the subsequent group discussions in four 2- to 2 1/2 hour sessions.

STAFFING REQUIREMENTS/TRAINING

The program requires one lecturer per classroom and one group discussion leader to work with eight students. A two-day intensive training workshop is recommended to train all group leaders on how to conduct effective group discussion sessions and to familiarize them with the program format and content. The PASHA program package includes comprehensive staff training materials.