Intervention Research on Youth Development to Prevent Teen Pregnancy

University of Texas Prevention Research Center

Topics:
Healthy Youth

This research project’s focus is on preventing teen pregnancy through positive means. The University of Texas Prevention Research Center is teaming with Planned Parenthood of Houston and Southeast Texas and St. Luke’s Episcopal Health Charities in developing a community-based model for an intervention that will be targeted toward Latino youth in Houston. The intervention focuses on strengthening teens’ assets and potential as a strategy to reduce sexual risk behavior. Researchers are reviewing the literature and working closely with community groups to determine community needs and readiness for such a program. They are also visiting youth development programs to gather ideas. Potential components of the intervention include education and college preparation, family life and sexual education, community service, lifetime sports, job education, arts, mental health services, and medical health services. Parents will also be involved, in components that may include English as a Second Language classes, General Equivalency Diploma (GED) preparation, parenting classes and family events, and family life and sex education. The research team will also design a rigorous evaluation.

 

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