Parental support for teenage pregnancy prevention programmes in South Carolina public middle schools

Abstract

Teenage pregnancy is a major public health issue in the USA; this is especially true in the state of South Carolina (SC). Research shows that well developed, good-quality teenage pregnancy prevention (TPP) programmes can be effective in modifying young people's sexual behaviour. While several quantitative studies have examined parents' perceptions of TPP programmes in secondary schools, the purpose of this study was to qualitatively examine parents' perceptions of these school-based initiatives in SC public middle schools and investigate the role parents play in sustaining these programmes over time. The study employed a qualitative, phenomenological research design. Seven semi-structured focus groups were conducted with parents of SC middle school students (n = 72). Focus groups were audio recorded for transcription and thematic analysis. Thematic analysis revealed that parents support TPP programmes in schools and want students to learn about both abstinence and contraception. Parents want schools to provide greater access to the curriculum to reinforce TPP messages at home. Participants asserted it was their responsibility to ensure TPP programmes are sustained in schools. This study concludes that educating students about TPP is a collaborative process between parents and schools.