Journal of Pediatric and Adolescent Gynecology
Volume 19, Issue 4 , Pages 267-270, August 2006

When Adolescent Girls Say, “I don't know”

  • Mary B. Short, PhD

      Affiliations

    • University of Houston-Clear Lake, Houston, Texas
    • Corresponding Author InformationAddress correspondence to: Mary B. Short, PhD, 2700 Bay Area Blvd, Houston, TX 77058
    • ,
  • Lisa C. Mills, PhD

      Affiliations

    • Department of Pediatrics, Children's Hospital Medical Center, Cincinnati, Ohio
    • ,
  • Susan L. Rosenthal, PhD

      Affiliations

    • Department of Pediatrics, University of Texas Medical Branch, Galveston, Texas, USA

Abstract 

Study Objective

To understand adolescent girls' use of “I don't know” within the context of discussing information related to sexual attitudes and behaviors.

Design

Qualitative analysis of seven focus groups with adolescent girls.

Setting

Urban primary care clinic.

Participants

Adolescent girls (n = 23) with a mean age of 16.4 years (range 14 to 18 years). Fifty-two percent were African-American, 26% were Caucasian, 17% were Hispanic/Latino, and 5% were Asian.

Results

The use of “I don't know” served three functions: (1) place holder, (2) lack of commitment to an opinion; and (3) reduction of commitment to an opinion or belief.

Conclusions

These results suggest that girls use “I don't know” when asked about their thoughts and opinions related to sexual health, and that its use can have varying implications. Discriminating the intent may help providers respond appropriately. Responses should include providing a safe and nonjudgmental environment in which girls can express their feelings and opinions regarding their sexual health.

Key Words: Adolescence, Women's health, Sexuality, Sexual education, Relational theory

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PII: S1083-3188(06)00159-8

doi:10.1016/j.jpag.2006.05.001

Journal of Pediatric and Adolescent Gynecology
Volume 19, Issue 4 , Pages 267-270, August 2006

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