Using Focus Groups to Understand Mother–Child Communication About Sex

The purpose of this descriptive focus group study was to examine communication themes regarding sex and sexual risk behavior in low-income mothers of adolescent children. Focus group questions were guided by Jaccard's communication constructs. Data analysis provided three overriding themes in all five construct areas: mothers are often uncomfortable discussing sex with their male children, mothers feel strongly that their own values and beliefs must guide discussion, and mothers believe their children need developmentally appropriate information. This information may be useful in assisting pediatric nurses in discussing adolescent sex and sexual risk behavior with families.