Interviewing adolescent girls about sexual and reproductive health: a qualitative study exploring how best to ask questions in structured follow-up interviews in a randomized controlled trial in Zambia

Abstract

Plain language summary Numerous studies have found that adolescents may not answer truthfully or consistently when questioned about issues such as sexual activity, abortion and pregnancy. Such issues are considered sensitive, incriminating, or embarrassing, and answers may be influenced by a fear of being misjudged or sanctioned. In an attempt to collect more reliable data on sexual behaviour and childbearing, we combined face-to-face interviews with Audio Computer-Assisted Self Interviewing (ACASI) in a research trial involving adolescents in Zambia. In this study we aimed to explore adolescent girls’ experiences and opinions of being interviewed about sexual and reproductive health when participating in the trial. We combined group discussions with girl participants and individual interviews with teachers. Participants said they felt shy, embarrassed or uncomfortable when asked questions about sex, pregnancy and abortion face-to-face. Teachers, girls and interviewers alike noted that very direct questions limit what the participants may be willing to share. Efforts by interviewers to signal that they did not judge the participants for their behaviour, and repeated interviews with the same interviewer reduced discomfort over time. Some liked ACASI whereas some said it made it easier to give false answers, and answering on electronic tablets could be challenging. To reduce embarrassment and increase the likelihood of honest answers we recommend avoiding overly direct language and descriptive words, and to relate questions about sexual activity to a romantic relationship. Interviewers who are able to establish familiarity and trust can make participants more comfortable.

Keywords

• Adolescents
• Sexual and reproductive health
• Zambia
• Survey methods
• ACASI