Interpersonal factors in premarital contraception

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Abstract
We reviewed 52 studies published since 1970 investigating interpersonal factors related to the contraceptive behavior of unmarried adolescents and young adults. The studies focused largely on white, middle‐class women from student and clinic populations. Methodological problems included poorly defined samples and procedures, a relative lack of random sampling techniques, and a heavy reliance on subjects' self‐reports. Methodological strengths included generally high participation rates, use of experimental and longitudinal designs, and use of multi‐variate statistical analyses. Studies focusing on subjects' interactions with partners, parents, and peers were evaluated individually and comparatively. In general, parents were of the least importance in determining teenagers' knowledge and behaviors. Across all reference groups, the effective use of contraception was most consistent when explicit communication about contraception was given. Implications of these findings and recommendations for future research are discussed.