Utilizing Social Norms Theory to Delay the Sexual Debut of Early Adolescents: An Intervention Strategy

摘要: ABSTRACT UTILIZING SOCIAL NORMS THEORY TO DELAY THE SEXUAL DEBUT OF EARLY ADOLESCENTS: AN INTERVENTION STRATEGY Anna M. Gerard, MSW, LCSW Dr. Jeffrey Applegate, Ph.D. Background and Significance: Numerous programs have been developed in the last twenty years aimed at reducing prevalence consequences of risky sexual behavior among adolescents. Despite these efforts, United States is second highest industrialized nations unintended pregnancy rates sexually transmitted infections its youth, with a disproportionately high incidence African-American Hispanic populations (CDC, 2012). Research suggests that an early debut, defined as having occurred prior to adolescent reaching age 15, significantly increases risk for pregnancy, (STIs) future (Houlihan et al., 2008; Waller & DuBois, 2004). Additional intervention models delaying adolescent’s debut might be successful decreasing negative outcomes. When considering interventions adolescents, attention peer influence critical. Social Norms Theory contends individual makes decisions engage particular based on perceived his or her peers (Berkowitz, 2002). The overestimation common can lead marked increase individual’s decision behavior. Interventions grounded aim correct misperception by providing accurate information through implementation social marketing campaigns. Correcting believed reduce overall targeted behavior, individuals may more likely delay avoid engagement socially undesirable activity. need continued research efforts determine efficacy addressing additional health behaviors, serve useful conceptual framework development seeking Method: Given current trend adolescents receiving significant amount media websites, capitalizing this platform disseminate corrective material promises highly relevant accessible target population. Thus, website was core aspect model employed study. In addition, supplemental materials used schools and/or psychotherapy settings were provide those who not access Facebook page created. Implications Clinical Work: workers many are uniquely positioned promote healthier impact timing their debut. presence, all group psychotherapy, receive direct clinical care education surrounding risks This dissertation available ScholarlyCommons: http://repository.upenn.edu/edissertations_sp2/45 response, macro-level such project enhance otherwise seek out receive. Degree Type Dissertation Name Doctor Work (DSW) First Advisor Second Amy Bleakley, Third Susan Sorenson,