Knowledge, attitudes, and behavior related to pregnancy in a rural teenage population

Despite recent declining national trends, teenage pregnancy continues to be a community health problem warranting attention, especially in rural areas of the southern United States. Communities are unique and require assessment of risk populations to develop appropriate initiatives. This pilot study examined consent strategies and survey procedures and tools. Additionally, descriptive statistics related to pregnancy and pregnancy prevention knowledge, attitudes, and behaviors were examined. The study sample consisted of 52 boys and girls who perceived themselves to be in the middle or upper levels of their 9th-grade class and who were predominantly college bound and fairly active in extracurricular activities. Often groups with similar demographics are not perceived as at risk for pregnancy and early sexual intercourse, but the findings suggest otherwise. Many girls were sexually active, several had already experienced pregnancy, and some were at risk for intentional pregnancy. Knowledge regarding pregnancy prevention was modest. School-based and peer-focused programs are promising intervention strategies in response to identified attitudes and reported information sources related to pregnancy and pregnancy prevention.