Policies and Practices Affecting Adolescent Sexual Health in Mississippi

Abstract

The purpose of this study was to examine policies and practices that affect the sexual health of adolescents in Forrest County, a southeast Mississippi community. Community members participating in a series of community conversations shared perspectives on needs and problems related to adolescent sexual health; policies and practices affecting adolescent sexual health; and their own roles in, and contributions toward, improving adolescent sexual health. Qualitative analysis of conversations yielded five overarching themes related directly to: education, health, environment, communication, and parental involvement. Community members expressed a strong desire to improve adolescent sexual health by offering specific recommendations and action plans.