ADOLESCENT DECISION-MAKING ABOUT SEXUAL AND REPRODUCTIVE ISSUES

Abstract

The aim of this study was to describe youth sexual and reproductive decision making styles, as well as cognitions associated to them. Testimonies were obtained through in depth interviews carried out with a sample of 72 adolescents from Bogotá and Cali, 48 women and 24 men. The authors analyze the way cognitions - knowledge, social norms, beliefs, attitudes, values, expectancies, goals and meanings- constructed in the socio-cultural context, guide youth decision making towards establishing romantic relationships, having sexual intercourse, using contraceptive methods, getting married, getting pregnant or having an abortion. The findings of the study led to recommendations for the design of sexual education programs that include the different socialization agents

Keywords

• Adolescence
• decision-making
• sexual activity
• adolescent pregnancy