“They're scared that somebody's gonna judge them”: Female African American youth in foster care's perspectives on sexual and reproductive health communication with caregivers

Abstract

BackgroundObtaining accurate information is critical for youth's sexual and reproductive health (SRH). Youth not in foster care often learn about SRH from their biological parents. Separated from their biological parents, youth in care depend on healthcare providers and caregivers for SRH information. However, they often receive insufficient information and feel unsupported in meeting their needs for SRH information. PurposeThis study explored female African American adolescents in foster care's perspectives on effective SRH communication with caregivers to help them avoid sexual risks. MethodsA qualitative study was conducted using semi-structured interviews. We used purposive sampling to recruit 16 adolescents aged 18 to 20 years old with a history of foster care placement. The transcribed interviews underwent inductive thematic analysis. The Positive Youth Development theory underpinned this research. ResultsTwo prominent themes emerged: establishing a relationship and preferred communication approach. Youth reported that for caregivers to engage in effective SRH communication, they must first establish a relationship by being aware of the youth's childhood trauma, building trust, having patience, and being vulnerable. Youth also appreciated caregivers who ensured comfortability and were honest and straightforward. DiscussionCaregivers should be trained on adverse childhood experiences, trauma-informed approaches, SRH knowledge, and communication. Implications to practiceHealthcare providers should make use of the time spent with youth and discuss SRH topics during clinical encounters. This time spent with youth may be their only chance to obtain accurate SRH information. Youth's perspectives regarding communication about SRH should be implemented in future SRH communication interventions.