title: Parents' views on sexual debut among pre-teen children in Washington, DC.
abstract: OBJECTIVE: Present US parents' perceptions about factors leading to early intercourse and strategies for overcoming them.  METHODS: Conducted analysis of eight focus groups with 78 male and female African-American and Hispanic caregivers of fifth-graders and sixth-graders (ages 10-12).  RESULTS: Participants gave the following primary reasons for early sexual activity: lack of structured activities, adult supervision, and communication; and influence of peers, society, and media. They suggested strategies targeting these reasons, and the need for parents, schools, and the community to work together.  CONCLUSION: Incorporating parents' perspectives would help tailor interventions to the needs of the target population and increase parental support.
authors.affiliation: Georgetown University Hospital, Adolescent Medicine, Department of Pediatrics, Washington, DC, USA.
authors.forename: Leslie R
authors.initials: LR
authors.lastname: Walker
authors.forename: Allison
authors.initials: A
authors.lastname: Rose
authors.forename: Claudia
authors.initials: C
authors.lastname: Squire
authors.forename: Helen P
authors.initials: HP
authors.lastname: Koo