A theoretical framework for studying adolescent contraceptive use

This paper presents a theoretical framework for viewing adolescent contraceptive usage. Young adolescents are beginning to come to terms with their changed bodies, with their increased interest in members of the opposite sex and with their new reproductive capacity. At the same time, their cognitive and social skills are far from fully developed. Further, they may have limited access to the information they need for informed decision making. These immaturities may make the young, sexually active, adolescent, male or female, particularly likely to experience an unintended conception. The problem-solving process is used as a framework for examining developmentally the competencies that must be present for effective contraceptive use. The five major aspects of problems in this area are: problem recognition, motivation, generation of alternatives, decision making and implementation. Each of the aspects is seen as necessary but not sufficient for effective contraceptive use. Each aspect is discussed with respect to developmental changes, male/female differences and previous research.