The purpose of this study was to better
understand factors related to communication and
contraceptive use among college students. Further, the
study was undertaken to obtain a better understanding
of what is meant by the word "communication" when it is
used pertaining to contraceptive use. Aspects related
to communication examined were, content of discussion,
timing and closure of discussion and satisfaction
related to discussion concerning contraceptive use.
The sample consisted of 245 subjects in late
adolescence from a state university in Southwest
Virginia. Subjects were divided into two categories:
"Discussers", those who discussed the use of
contraception with their last sexual partner; and,
"Non-discussers", those who did not discuss the use of
contraception with their last sexual partner.
Discussers and Non-discussers were then divided into
those subjects in casual relationships, and those subjects in exclusive relationships. The data were
collected using a pencil and paper questionnaire.
The results indicated a high usage of
contraception among Discussers and Non-discussers in
the sample. Results also indicate that relationship
status appeared to have been a contributor to the use
of contraception, (i.e., those in exclusive
relationships were more likely to use contraception).
It appears that in casual relationships communication
may play an important role in the use of contraception
in this group. Results indicate that casual Discussers
may show some of the same characteristics (i.e.,
caring about partner) as those subjects in exclusive
relationships.
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