Teens Reflect on Their Sources of Contraceptive Information

Abstract

Based on semistructured interviews with a racially and ethnically diverse sample of 58 U.S. high school students, this study examines teens’ exposure to contraceptive information from a range of sources and the extent to which they trust this information. Teens report exposure to contraceptive information from many individuals and places, most commonly school, family, and friends. Few teens rely on the Internet for contraceptive information, and most are wary of this source. The authors identify two themes that characterized teens’ discussions: wariness about hormonal methods, and the compatibility of contraception and abstinence messages. The findings suggest ways that schools, a common and trusted source of sexual health information for teens, could better improve students’ access to accurate contraceptive information.