Reproductive Coercion: An Innovative Intervention for Adolescent Females

Abstract

According to the literature, one in five women have been coerced into having sex without a condom by their partner, and adolescent females who have experienced RC are five times more likely to report intimate partner violence (IPV). In addition to unintended pregnancies, there is a strong association between RC and the risk of STIs, depression, and substance use with bisexual and lesbian adolescent females at a much greater risk of RC than their heterosexual peers. This novel upstream approach to implement this pilot intervention into current teen pregnancy prevention curricula will be the first intervention of this type to address this population. Over the summer of 2024, a review of the literature was conducted. This review focused on areas such as current innovative interventions, adolescent learning styles, and the use of different behavioral theories. Through the literature, it was determined six modules were supported and the content in the modules will be guided by social cognitive theory. Synthesis of published studies in those areas helped to guide our work. The objectives and activities will be presented from work in Phase II during Spring 2025 regarding the six modules developed. These modules are Module One - Definition of Reproductive Coercion, Module Two - Negative Health Sequelae of Reproductive Coercion, Module Three - Pregnancy, STIs, and Contraception, Module Four - Recognizing Power and Control in Relationship, Module Five- Skills to Improve Communication and RC, and Module Six - You are in Control of Your Body. These activities focus on methods where adolescents learn best.