Pono Choices: A Culturally Responsive Teen Pregnancy and STI Prevention Program
Project Description:
Hawai`i has the 17th highest teenage pregnancy rate of any state (Kost, Henshaw, & Carlin, 2010). Teen pregnancy, HIV, and sexually transmitted infection (STI) rates are highest among Asian/Pacific Islanders (A/PIs), including Native Hawaiians. Diverse cultural and English as a second language issues experienced with indigenous and new immigrant populations, exacerbate the problem. The research project, Pono Choices, is designed to develop and field-test an innovative approach to preventing teen pregnancy and STIs by selecting components from current evidence-based programs and combining them within a framework that meets the needs of the culturally diverse youth population in Hawai`i by using Hawaiian cultural values throughout. Effectiveness of the resulting curriculum will be determined through a state-wide randomized control trial. The overarching goal Pono Choices will be to reduce the number of teen pregnancies and incidences of STIs; increase positive bonding in the school and community; increase sense of self-identity and self-efficacy; and improve expectations for the future.
Core Function(s):
Performing Research or Evaluation, Developing & Disseminating Information, Continuing Education/Community Training
Area of Emphasis
Health-Related Activities, Other - Cultural Diversity
Target Audience:
Community Trainees / Short term trainees, Professionals and Para-Professionals, Family Members/Caregivers, Legislators/Policy Makers, General Public
Unserved or Under-served Populations:
Racial or Ethnic Minorities, Disadvantaged Circumstances, Geographic Areas, Rural/Remote
Primary Target Audience Geographic Descriptor:
Mulit-County, State
COVID-19 Related Data:
N/A
