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A clinic-based program
designed to improve effective contraceptive use and reduce pregnancy rates
among teens did not produce the desired effects (Hercog-Baron, Furstenberg,
Shea, and Harris, 1986 - Philadelphia evaluation). Targeting first-time
visitors to family planning clinics, the program randomly assigned 417
girls aged 12-17 to one of two special service groups or one of two control
groups. The special service groups were designed to facilitate the teen's
adjustment to the new contraceptives and to encourage consistent and continued
use. The "family support" special service group offered each
girl short-term (6 weekly sessions) family counseling services in an attempt
to promote greater family involvement in the teen's contraceptive decisions
and practices. Teens in the "periodic support" group also received
2-6 follow-up phone calls from clinic staff in the 4-6 weeks after the
initial clinic visit. These calls aimed to monitor the teen's experience
with the contraceptives. The two control groups received only the regular
clinic services. A 15-month follow-up evaluation revealed no significant
impact on contraceptive practices or pregnancy rates.
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