Reliability of self-reported contraceptive use and sexual behaviors among adolescent girls

J Sex Res. 2005 May;42(2):159-66. doi: 10.1080/00224490509552269.

Abstract

This study examines two issues relevant to adolescents' self-reported sexual and contraceptive use behaviors: reliability of partner-referent reports versus 3 and 6 month reports, and test-retest reliability of reports completed over a 2 week period. Data are from 196 13 to 18 year old girls recruited into this study while they south reproductive care from health clinics in a metropolitan area. All participants reported having had sexual intercourse during the past 6 months. Twice over a 2 week interval, participants completed the same paper and pencil surveys. The survey presented questions about sexual behavior and contraceptive use using 3 sequential frames of reference: within the past 6 months, within the past 3 months, and by specific sexual partners in the past 6 months. Findings demonstrate that adolescent girls can reliably report sexual behavior and contraceptive use over a 6 month interval. Study findings have implications for future research utilizing adolescents' self-reported sexual and contraceptive use behaviors.

Publication types

  • Research Support, N.I.H., Extramural
  • Research Support, U.S. Gov't, P.H.S.

MeSH terms

  • Adolescent
  • Adolescent Behavior* / psychology
  • Adolescent Health Services / standards
  • Coitus* / psychology
  • Contraception Behavior / psychology
  • Contraception Behavior / statistics & numerical data*
  • Contraception* / psychology
  • Female
  • Humans
  • Minnesota
  • Pregnancy
  • Pregnancy in Adolescence / prevention & control
  • Psychology, Adolescent
  • Self Disclosure*
  • Sex Education / standards
  • Sexual Partners / psychology
  • Surveys and Questionnaires