Related Experiment Videos
Computer-assisted detection and intervention in adolescent high-risk health behaviors
D M Paperny1, J Y Aono, R M Lehman
1Department of Pediatrics, University of Hawaii School of Medicine, Kaiser Permanente Medical Care Program, Honolulu, Hawaii.
The Journal of Pediatrics
|March 1, 1990
Summary
A computer program improved adolescent reporting of sensitive health issues compared to written questionnaires. Adolescents preferred computer interactions, enhancing health assessments and referrals.
Area of Science:
- Adolescent Health
- Health Informatics
- Psychosocial Behavior Assessment
Background:
- Adolescents often avoid discussing sensitive health issues with pediatricians.
- There's a need for effective methods to identify high-risk behaviors in teenagers.
- Adolescents may not recognize their need for health education or services.
Purpose of the Study:
- To evaluate a computer program for facilitating the reporting of high-risk behaviors in adolescents.
- To compare computer-based health assessment with traditional methods.
- To assess adolescent preferences for health reporting methods.
Main Methods:
- A computer program was developed to anonymously collect data on sensitive health behaviors.
- Adolescents' responses via computer were compared to those using written questionnaires.
- Two computer groups were compared: one anonymous, one sharing printouts with clinicians.
Main Results:
- Anonymous computer reporting elicited more positive responses to sensitive health problems.
- Computer-based methods yielded significantly higher reporting of high-risk issues than written questionnaires.
- 89% of adolescents preferred the computer over questionnaires or interviews.
Conclusions:
- Computer programs can effectively facilitate the reporting of sensitive health issues in adolescents.
- Automated health assessment via computer is a valuable adjunct for pediatric care.
- The nonjudgmental nature of computers enhances adolescent engagement in health discussions.