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Background: In 2014, roughly 14,500 cases of gonorrhea were reported in Los Angeles County. Nearly 75% of those cases occurred among individuals between 15-34 years of age. The distribution of female gonorrhea cases occurred largely in South Los Angeles (LA). In an effort to identify how South LA young individuals were accessing sexual health information, as well as barriers, California Family Health Council (CFHC) conducted focus groups.
Methods: In 2015, a qualitative evaluation was conducted with youth from four youth serving community-based organizations (CBOs) in South Los Angeles to assess how they access SRH information. Youth between the ages of 14 and 24 were recruited to participate. Focus group data collection was conducted through a note taker and audio recording that was later transcribed. An inductive content analysis approach was used to identify themes and patterns among transcribed interview recordings.
Results: A total of 46 participants between the ages of 14-21 participated in the focus groups. Groups included a peer education group, two alternative school youth programs and a substance abuse prevention and treatment group. An analysis of transcribed recordings revealed several key themes including 1) perceived trusted sources for sexual health information such as healthcare providers and peers were valued over parents and teachers, 2) barriers to accessing information and services including fear, judgment and shame from friends, peers, providers and parents, 3) lack of knowledge around minor consent laws and how to navigate the process for accessing services. Prevalent themes varied across the groups.
Conclusions: Identified themes can inform communication strategies for STD prevention such as messaging for parents, providers and peer educators. In addition the need for further information regarding minor rights and navigating health services are vital to STD prevention efforts for youth in South Los Angeles.