Student, parent, teacher, and administrator perceptions of an abstinence-based teenage pregnancy prevention program implemented in rural western Alabama middle schools

This study examined student, parent, teacher, and administrator perceptions of their experiences with The Future Selves Program (FSP). FSP is a theory-driven abstinence-based intervention that features youth development concepts. It is designed to reduce risky behaviors by promoting cognitive development through asset-building skills and opportunities for adolescents to consider their future as they approach adulthood. The purpose of this study was to identify participants' awareness and views of the FSP, describe their perceptions of program delivery, and determine what has happened to students as a consequence of the program.; Participants were 75 middle grade students and 12 parents in one rural West Alabama county who took part in separate focus groups. Face-to-face interviews were conducted with 14 school personnel. Focus group and face-to-face interview participants identified enablers, barriers, and consequences of having the program in their school. The strengths and weaknesses of the FSP were shared by the study participants and provided insights on issues that may assist practitioners on how to design effective programs to prevent teen pregnancy.; Perceptions elicited from participants can be used to improve the FSP school-based abstinence program. Program planners and evaluators should consider including the target audiences in discussions about their programs, which, in turn, should allow them to better design and implement tailored school-based interventions to reduce adolescent sexual and other risky behaviors.