| Sumario: | Objective: To develop a better understanding of the beliefs and influences that predispose teen females to early pregnancy. Methods: We conducted focus groups with 37 nonparenting, AfricanAmerican females 14-17 years old recruited from an urban, hospital outpatient clinic. Results: Participants suggested that although pregnancy and parenting are best delayed until one is older, they are common, manageable experiences. Contraceptive use was deemed as important, though contraceptive options were often perceived as ineffective, unsafe, or unpleasant. Conclusion: This study highlights the importantance of developing further research to understand ambivalence and interventions to address ambivalent attitudes.
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