This research examined adolescent males’ decision-making when confronted with a hypothetical unplanned pregnancy in a sexual partner. An innovative methodology, involving a computerized simulation game was utilized with 386 Australian males (mean age of 15 years). Data were gathered from responses made during the simulation, and questionnaires assessed idealization of pregnancy and parenthood, stereotypic male beliefs and self-esteem. Descriptive findings are presented, together with multivariate analyses to examine predictors of participants’ choices about whether to (a) terminate the pregnancy and (b) continue the relationship with the sexual partner. Idealized beliefs about pregnancy and parenthood were important in the decision relating to the pregnancy outcome (p < 0.001). The computer simulation has potential as a cost-effective component of adolescent pregnancy prevention programs that could challenge these idealized beliefs.
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ACKNOWLEDGMENT
This article reports research that was funded by the National Health & Medical Research Council of Australia, 2001–2003.
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Professor of Psychiatry at Department of Psychiatry, Flinders University, South Australia. His major research interests include psychosocial obstetrics and gynecology including the study of adolescents and males in relation to these areas, parent–infant attachment, and grandparenting.
Research Officer at Department of Sociology, Flinders University South Australia. She has worked with Prof. Condon on multiple psychosocial obstetrics and gynecology research studies, and scripted the video role-play reported here.
Professor of Education at School of Education, Flinders University South Australia. Major research interests include developmental psychology and adolescence.
Dean of Medicine at Notre Dame University of Australia. Her research interests are adolescent medicine, including obstetrics and gynecology, partner abuse, sex education in schools.
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Condon, J.T., Corkindale, C.J., Russell, A. et al. Processes and Factors Underlying Adolescent Males’ Attitudes and Decision-Making in Relation to an Unplanned Pregnancy. J Youth Adolescence 35, 423–434 (2006). https://doi.org/10.1007/s10964-005-9025-2
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DOI: https://doi.org/10.1007/s10964-005-9025-2