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Individual history and cultural practices: effects on condom use by adolescents

The literature shows that although young people have sufficient knowledge about contraceptive methods, the frequency of their use is low. This study investigated the use of condoms and possible controlling variables of this behavior in students aged between 13 and 18 years old. A structured questionnaire was used, the results of which suggested that: (1) adolescents demonstrated that they followed rules that encourage the behavior of not using condoms, (2) parents or guardians do not control this behavior punitively, (3) health services provide little reinforcement in clarifying doubts about sexuality and obtaining condoms. The influence of individual history and cultural practices on the results was analyzed.

Teenager; Behavior analysis; Condoms


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E-mail: psychologicalstudies@puc-campinas.edu.br