Improving the fit: adolescents' needs and future programs for sexual and reproductive health in developing countries
Hughes, J.; McCauley, A.P.
Studies in Family Planning 29(2): 233-245
1998
ISSN/ISBN: 0039-3665 PMID: 9664634 DOI: 10.2307/172161Document Number: 198895
Although the demand for sexual and reproductive health programming for young people in developing countries is growing, there is a dearth of evidence on the characteristics of effective programs. In fact, the available literature indicates there is a poor fit between existing programs and the needs of young people. Thus, planners must build upon existing knowledge about adolescents' needs, preferences, and health-seeking behaviors while taking resource constraints into consideration. This paper considers the need for approaches that can help adolescents to obtain information, skills-building opportunities, counseling, and clinical services. A review of the work of the WHO/UNFPA/UNICEF Study Group on Adolescent Health and Development suggests six principles for use in planning expanded sexual and reproductive health programs for young people: 1) recognize and address the fact that the program needs of young people differ according to their sexual experience and other characteristics; 2) begin with what young people want and what they are already doing to obtain information and services; 3) include building skills as a core intervention; 4) engage adults in creating a safer, more supportive environment in which young people can develop and learn to manage their lives; 5) use a greater variety of settings and providers--both public and private, clinical and nonclinical--to provide sexual and reproductive health information and services; and 6) build upon what exists by linking existing programs and services in new ways so that they reach many more young people.