Condom availability and prevention issues for adolescents

Sexual activity among adolescents in the United States increased during the 1970s and 1980s but appears to be leveling off in the early 1990s. Condom use among sexually active adolescents has been irregular and variable. Recent trends, however, suggest that teenagers may be using condoms more often. More than half of all high school students used a condom at last intercourse in a nationwide survey. The most recent data about adolescent sexual activity and condom use are summarized, and recent studies examining attitudes and beliefs about condoms are reviewed. Many authors suggest that knowledge alone may be insufficient to change adolescent behavior in regard to condoms. The importance of understanding cultural norms and the social meaning of condoms among groups of teenagers is discussed. Differentiating disease protection from pregnancy prevention is also examined. Suggestions are made regarding strengthening condom negotiating skills in individuals. Recently published accounts of communities that have adopted condom programs in their schools by successfully addressing political obstacles are outlined.