Feasibility and Acceptability of Virtual Implementation of a Sexual Reproductive Health Teen Pregnancy Prevention Program for Native Youth

Am Indian Alsk Native Ment Health Res. 2022;29(2):63-84. doi: 10.5820/aian.2902.2022.63.

Abstract

American Indian/Alaska Native (Native) youth face high rates of substance use, teen pregnancy and sexually transmitted infections. In response to the COVID-19 pandemic, Respecting the Circle of Life (RCL), a sexual reproductive health and teen pregnancy prevention program for Native youth and their trusted adult, was adapted and delivered in a virtual format with Native youth in a rural, reservation-based Native community. This manuscript describes the adaptation process, feasibility, and acceptability of virtual program implementation. The manuscript describes the process of rapidly shifting the RCL program into a virtual format. In addition, a mixed-methods process evaluation of implementation forms, program feedback forms, in-depth interviews with participants, and staff debriefing sessions was completed. Results show virtual implementation of RCL is both feasible and acceptable for Native youth and their trusted adults. A key benefit of virtual implementation is the flexibility in scheduling and ability to have smaller groups of youth, which offers greater privacy for youth participants compared to in-person implementation with larger groups. However, internet connectivity did present a challenge for virtual implementation. Ultimately, sexual and reproductive health programs seeking to reach Native youth and families should consider virtual implementation methods, both during and outside of pandemic situations.

Publication types

  • Research Support, Non-U.S. Gov't

MeSH terms

  • Adolescent
  • Adult
  • COVID-19* / prevention & control
  • Feasibility Studies
  • Female
  • Humans
  • Indians, North American*
  • Pandemics
  • Pregnancy
  • Pregnancy in Adolescence* / prevention & control
  • Reproductive Health