Review articleConnectedness as a Predictor of Sexual and Reproductive Health Outcomes for Youth
Section snippets
Methods
We conducted a systematic literature review of nonintervention, behavioral research published between 1985 and 2007. The search terms included variations of the Boolean terms for sexual behavior (e.g., sex, coital, intercourse), sexual and reproductive health outcomes (e.g., pregnancy, STIs, HIV),adolescence (e.g., youth, teen, middle school, high school), and terms related to the youth development construct of connectedness. Search terms and selection criteria were adapted from a search
Results
Results are summarized in the following paragraphs for each of the eight connectedness sub-constructs. Over 190 articles met the inclusion criteria. An evidence table providing detailed descriptions of each article (e.g., sample characteristics, measures, and findings) is available on request from the lead author. Longitudinal findings are summarized in the text as they relate to the a priori standard of evidence demonstrating a protective or risk association. Cross-sectional findings are
Discussion
As summarized in Table 3, this review found sufficient evidence to support a protective association between ASRH outcomes and six connectedness sub-constructs: family connectedness, parent–adolescent general communication, parent–adolescent sexual communication, parental monitoring, partner connectedness (for females), and school connectedness. All six demonstrated evidence for delaying sexual initiation (ever had sex) or for protecting against early sexual debut. Four sub-constructs were also
Conclusions
This review indicates that connectedness can be a protective factor for responsible ASRH outcomes. PYD programs that provide supportive relationships with pro-social adults, a sense of belonging, and appropriate structure may have a positive effect on sexual and reproductive health, as well as other youth outcomes. Furthermore, integration of family, school, and community efforts in PYD programs may provide a synergy to enhance these effects. There is a critical need for additional measurement
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The findings and conclusions in this report are those of the author(s) and do not necessarily represent the official position of the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention.