The Association of Foster Care or Kinship Care With Adolescent Sexual Behavior and First Pregnancy

Abstract:
Objective. Each year more than 500,000 children out-of-home placement. Few outcome studies of these children specifically address high-risk sexual behavior and adolescent pregnancy. Our study investigated the relationship between living in kinship or foster care and high-risk reproductive behaviors in a nationally representative sample of women. Conclusions. A history of living in either foster of kinship care is a marker for high-risk sexual behaviors, and the risk is comparable in both out-of-home living arrangements. Recognition of these risks may enable health care providers to intervene with high-risk youth to prevent early initiation of sexual intercourse and early pregnancy. Pediatrics 2001; 108 (3)

Author(s): Sara C. Carpenter, Robert B. Clyman et al.

Publication: Pediatrics


Date Published: 9/1/2001

Pages: 6

Location Code: 8438