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Mataraarachchi D, Buddhika Mahesh PK, Pathirana TEA, Vithana PVSC. Development and implementation of a worksite-based intervention to improve mothers' knowledge, attitudes, and skills in sharing information with their adolescent daughters on preventing sexual violence: lessons learned in a developing setting, Sri Lanka. BMC Public Health 2024; 24:983. [PMID: 38589889 PMCID: PMC11000366 DOI: 10.1186/s12889-024-18416-x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/30/2023] [Accepted: 03/22/2024] [Indexed: 04/10/2024] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Sexual violence among adolescents has become a major public health concern in Sri Lanka. Lack of sexual awareness is a major reason for adverse sexual health outcomes among adolescents in Sri Lanka. This study was intended to explore the effectiveness of a worksite-based parent-targeted intervention to improve mothers' knowledge, and attitudes on preventing sexual violence among their adolescent female offspring and to improve mother-daughter communication of sexual violence prevention with the family. METHODS "My mother is my best friend" is an intervention designed based on previous research and behavioral theories, to help parents to improve their sexual communication skills with their adolescent daughters. A quasi-experimental study was conducted from August 2020 to March 2023 in randomly selected two Medical Officer of Health (MOH)areas in Kalutara district, Sri Lanka. Pre and post-assessments were conducted among a sample of 135 mothers of adolescent girls aged 14-19 years in both intervention and control areas. RESULTS Out of the 135 mothers who participated in the baseline survey, 127 mothers (94.1%) from the intervention area (IA) physically participated in at least one session of the intervention. The worksite-based intervention was effective in improving mothers' knowledge about adolescent sexual abuse prevention (Difference in percentage difference of pre and post intervention scores in IA and CA = 4.3%, p = 0.004), mother's attitudes in communicating sexual abuse prevention with adolescent girls (Difference in percentage difference of pre and post intervention scores in IA and CA = 5.9%, p = 0.005), and the content of mother-daughter sexual communication (Difference in percentage difference of pre and post intervention scores in IA and CA = 27.1%, p < 0.001). CONCLUSIONS AND RECOMMENDATIONS Worksite-based parenting program was effective in improving mothers' knowledge about sexual abuse prevention among adolescent daughters and in improving the content of mother-daughter communication about sexual abuse prevention. Developing appropriate sexual health programs for mothers of different ethnicities, and cultures using different settings is important. Conduction of need assessment programs to identify the different needs of mothers is recommended.
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Romo LF, Hurtado A. "Know your worth and play it safe:" messages to daughters from Mexican-origin mothers in conversations about dating and romantic relationships. CULTURE, HEALTH & SEXUALITY 2022; 24:812-826. [PMID: 33661073 DOI: 10.1080/13691058.2021.1887523] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/21/2020] [Accepted: 02/04/2021] [Indexed: 06/12/2023]
Abstract
This study aims to enhance understanding of mother-daughter communication about dating and romantic relationships. We explored how Mexican-origin, mostly immigrant mothers talked about these topics with their daughters (ages 13 to 16 years) using videotaped observational methods. Themes drawn from the maternal messages contained in the conversations of 132 mother-daughter dyads show that mothers promote positive decision-making among their daughters, advising them to take their time, choose partners wisely, insist on respect from boys, maintain autonomy in relationships, pursue education goals, and develop a sense of self-worth. Mothers expressed concern about their daughters being pressured or manipulated into having unwanted sex, which led to messages about negative partner dynamics predominating in conversations. Communication about risks, however, included only implicit advice about self-protective behaviours and few messages about the potential for dating violence and abuse. We discuss the implications for improving the design of sexual health communication programmes in which mothers and daughters jointly participate.
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Affiliation(s)
- Laura F Romo
- Gevirtz Graduation School of Education, University of California, Santa Barbara, California, USA
| | - Aída Hurtado
- Chicana and Chicano Studies Department, University of California, Santa Barbara, California, USA
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Fix RL. An Evaluation of Building Our Nation's Daughters (BOND): Improving Black Single Mother-Daughter Relationships and Well-Being. JOURNAL OF CHILD AND FAMILY STUDIES 2022; 31:237-246. [PMID: 35035204 PMCID: PMC8753339 DOI: 10.1007/s10826-021-02199-5] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 11/24/2021] [Indexed: 06/14/2023]
Abstract
Although single mothers report being most concerned about financial costs, the needs of these mothers and their children are more extensive. The current study evaluated a program for Black single mothers with adolescent daughters that emphasized the mother-daughter relationship and coping skills to promote well-being. The program is Building Our Nation's Daughters (BOND). Individual interviews were conducted with five mothers and five daughters who had participated in BOND. Interviews were conducted online during the COVID-19 pandemic. Interviews were audio recorded and transcribed to allow for coding and analysis of qualitative data. Mothers and daughters also verbally provided numeric outcome ratings specific to select outcomes. Mother and daughter well-being improved based both on self-report and report of the other member of the dyad (i.e., mother for daughter, daughter for mother). Results suggest programs like BOND have the capacity to improve mood and strengthen the mother-daughter relationship through development of coping skills and conflict resolution skills. The evaluated program improved mother and daughter well-being in part through skills building, but importantly through improvement in the mother-daughter relationship, as well. BOND could be used as a template for similarly situated families. For example, the program could be modified to address the needs of single father households and single caregiver households with adolescent boys.
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Affiliation(s)
- Rebecca L. Fix
- Department of Mental Health, Johns Hopkins Bloomberg School of Public Health, Johns Hopkins University, 415 N Washington Street, Baltimore, MD 21231 USA
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Adolescent Latinas' with Diabetes and Their Mothers' Understanding of Diabetes and Reproductive Health: Converging Themes to Inform a Culturally Sensitive Preconception Counseling Program. J Pediatr Health Care 2021; 35:205-215. [PMID: 33358477 DOI: 10.1016/j.pedhc.2020.10.004] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/16/2020] [Revised: 10/04/2020] [Accepted: 10/12/2020] [Indexed: 01/12/2023]
Abstract
INTRODUCTION Latinas are at an increased risk for diabetes and reproductive health (RH) complications with sexuality and pregnancy. This study explored the understanding of diabetes related to RH, pregnancy, unplanned pregnancies, preconceptioncounseling, tight-control, and family planning among Latina adolescents with diabetes and their mothers and explored converging themes. METHOD The qualitative descriptive study used written open-ended questions (English or Spanish) with Latina mothers (n = 13) and daughters (n = 21). Responses were transcribed. Content analysis was used by four researchers who coded and discussed themes and reached consensus. Converging themes were confirmed using Atlas.ti software. RESULTS Seven themes emerged from the mother-daughter dyad: communication (awkwardness, ambivalence, styles); control (being controlled vs. controlling); consequences (fertility, complications); planning (pregnancy, being healthy, life plan, RH); support; danger, risk, and safety; and stigma. DISCUSSION Many mother-daughter dyads were not ready to discuss RH among themselves. Cultural and familial perspectives should be considered when providing care and preconception counseling to this population.
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Kim B, Aronowitz T. Asian American Women's Recall of Conversations With Their Mothers About Sexual Health: A Secondary Analysis of Qualitative Data. J Assoc Nurses AIDS Care 2021; 32:151-159. [PMID: 32675643 DOI: 10.1097/jnc.0000000000000195] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/26/2022]
Abstract
ABSTRACT Between 2010 and 2016, Asian Americans (AA) had a 35% increase in HIV diagnosis. Although mother-daughter sexual communication was found to be protective in minority populations, the opposite is true among AAs. The purpose of this study was to explore AA women's experiences of sexual communication with their mothers. Secondary qualitative analysis using analytic expansion with a phenomenological approach was used. Thematic analysis was used to search for common patterns and themes that emerged using qualitative description methodology. Twenty East and Southeast AA cisgender women, ages 18-33 years, were interviewed. The primary finding was an intergenerational gap with two themes: (a) mothers' attitudes about sexual communication and (b) content of sexual communication. Indirect sexual communication included cautionary messages consistent with previous studies. AA mothers' strong cultural beliefs created a barrier to communication. Future research should focus on the young women who want open sexual communication and could influence the next generation.
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Affiliation(s)
- BoRam Kim
- BoRam Kim, BSN, RN, is a PhD Student, College of Nursing & Health Sciences, University of Massachusetts Boston, Boston, Massachusetts, USA. Teri Aronowitz, PhD, FNP-BC, FAAN, is an Associate Professor, College of Nursing & Health Sciences, University of Massachusetts Boston, Boston, Massachusetts, USA
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Sanchez D, Flannigan A, Guevara C, Arango S, Hamilton E. Links among Familial Gender Ideology, Media Portrayal of Women, Dating, and Sexual Behaviors in African American, and Mexican American Adolescent Young Women: A Qualitative Study. SEX ROLES 2017; 77:453-470. [PMID: 38818107 PMCID: PMC11139251 DOI: 10.1007/s11199-017-0739-x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/20/2022]
Abstract
Utilizing grounded theory methodology and drawing from sexual script theory as a research lens, we examined familial gender ideologies, media portrayals of Black and Latina women, dating attitudes, and sexual behaviors among 33 low-income early adolescent (aged 11-14) African American and Mexican American young women. Themes revealed divergent experiences for African American and Mexican American young women. In particular, African American participants reported egalitarian familial gender ideologies and sexual objectification of Black women, as well as more open and positive attitudes toward dating and sexuality. In contrast, Mexican American participants reported patriarchal familial gender ideologies and the portrayed mistreatment of Latinas in telenovelas and Spanish language songs, along with cautious attitudes towards dating and sexuality. Additionally, Mexican American participants reported that they censored their communication about sexual matters with their family. Overall, findings suggest that interventions should be tailored accordingly for African American and Mexican American youth. Interventions with African American young women should focus on providing accurate information on safer sexual practices, whereas interventions with Mexican American young women should focus on promoting constructive conceptualizations of gender roles, which could help foster self-efficacy around sexual communication with parents and potential partners.
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Affiliation(s)
- Delida Sanchez
- Department of Educational Psychology, The University of Texas at Austin, 1 University Station, D5800, Austin, TX 78712, USA
| | - Alaina Flannigan
- Department of Educational Psychology, The University of Texas at Austin, 1 University Station, D5800, Austin, TX 78712, USA
| | - Crystal Guevara
- Department of Educational Psychology, The University of Texas at Austin, 1 University Station, D5800, Austin, TX 78712, USA
| | - Sarah Arango
- Department of Educational Psychology, The University of Texas at Austin, 1 University Station, D5800, Austin, TX 78712, USA
| | - Emma Hamilton
- Department of Educational Psychology, The University of Texas at Austin, 1 University Station, D5800, Austin, TX 78712, USA
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Eversole JS, Berglas NF, Deardorff J, Constantine NA. Source of Sex Information and Condom Use Intention Among Latino Adolescents. HEALTH EDUCATION & BEHAVIOR 2016; 44:439-447. [DOI: 10.1177/1090198116671704] [Citation(s) in RCA: 14] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/16/2022]
Abstract
Adolescence is a common time for sexual initiation and information seeking about sexual health, yet little is known about how adolescents’ sources of information about sex influence their sexual beliefs and behaviors. This is particularly true for Latino adolescents, whose sources of sex information and sexual behaviors are vastly understudied. A survey of ninth-grade Latino adolescents ( N = 1,186) was employed to examine the relationship between adolescents’ primary source of sex information and their intention to use condoms. The study also examined the potential influences of demographics (age, gender), sociodemographics (socioeconomic status, parent education, and linguistic acculturation), and sexual experience on condom use intention. Among Latino youth, the most commonly reported source of sex information was parents (37.8%), followed by another relative (17.1%), school (13.4%), and friends (11.4%). Hierarchical regression analyses showed that after controlling for other factors, primary source of sex information was significantly associated with condom use intention ( p = .042). Hierarchical regression results stratified by gender showed that this relationship remained significant for males ( p = .004) but not for females ( p = .242). Males who reported friends (odds ratio [ OR] = 0.44, p = .003) or the media/Internet ( OR = 0.44, p = .008) as their primary sources of sex information, as compared to parents as their primary source, reported significantly lower intention to use condoms. These findings suggest it may be important for Latino adolescents, particularly males, to have additional or other sources for sex information in order to promote healthy sexual behaviors. Alternatively, interventions targeting parents or other family members to improve sexual health communication with adolescent boys may prove essential.
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Affiliation(s)
| | | | | | - Norman A. Constantine
- University of California, Berkeley, CA, USA
- Public Health Institute, Oakland, CA, USA
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Ghobadzadeh M, Sieving RE, Gloppen K. Positive Youth Development and Contraceptive Use Consistency. J Pediatr Health Care 2016; 30:308-16. [PMID: 26481270 DOI: 10.1016/j.pedhc.2015.08.006] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/10/2015] [Revised: 08/17/2015] [Accepted: 08/31/2015] [Indexed: 11/30/2022]
Abstract
INTRODUCTION Understanding protective factors associated with adolescent contraceptive use can guide strategies to prevent unprotected sex and its consequences. The current study investigated associations between a set of protective factors, specifically indicators of positive youth development, and consistency of contraceptive use. METHOD This cross-sectional study examined relationships between positive youth development indicators and consistency of contraceptive use among sexually active adolescent girls at elevated risk for pregnancy. Multivariate models assessed whether measures of individual attributes, social attachments, and social norms were associated with consistent condom and hormonal contraceptive use. RESULTS Adolescents with higher self-esteem and greater family connectedness reported more consistent hormonal contraceptive use. Two factors, stress management skills and perceived peer prosocial norms, were protective for consistent condom use. In contrast, steady partnership status was associated with less consistent condom use. DISCUSSION Findings suggest that interventions targeting protective factors may influence adolescents' contraceptive use, in addition to promoting their healthy development.
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Johnson SD, Williams SL. Solution-Focused Strategies for Effective Sexual Health Communication among African American Parents and Their Adolescents. HEALTH & SOCIAL WORK 2015; 40:267-274. [PMID: 26638502 DOI: 10.1093/hsw/hlv056] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 06/05/2023]
Abstract
The high rates of sexual risk behaviors, particularly among African American youths who may not be aware of their HIV status, provide indication that, unless prevention efforts are enhanced, this vulnerable group of youths will remain at greater risk for negative health status outcomes. Parents are important in efforts to reduce risk among youths and often have a willingness to be sexuality educators for their children; however, communication barriers often impede their ability to provide preventive sexual health knowledge to their youths. Social workers are often presented with opportunities to help parents develop effective sexual health communication skills in informal settings when formal interventions are not feasible. The present effort considers solution-focused strategies social workers can use to help parents overcome barriers and communicate more positively with their youths about sexual health.
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