"Telling It Like It Is: Teen perspectives on romantic relationships"
The majority of teens in high school have been involved in a romantic relationship, and almost one-half of high school-aged teens report that they have had at least one sexual experience. This Child Trends research brief suggests that teens have a clear understanding and expectation of what defines a healthy romantic relationship -- particularly regarding respect, honesty, fidelity, good communication and the absence of violence -- yet their relationships typically fall short of their standards.
The brief summarizes findings from focus groups designed to provide insight to policy makers, program providers and parents on the links between healthy romantic relationships and the prevention of teen pregnancy and STIs. Because of relatively high levels of early sexual activity, teenage childbearing and STIs among racial and ethnic minority groups, the 52 teens selected for the project were African American and Latino.
