A Randomized Effectiveness Trial of a Sex Education Program for Minority Youth in Miami, Florida

Through this study the authors assessed the outcomes of a randomized effectiveness trial of Project U-Turn, a comprehensive sex education program for at-risk youth in Miami, Florida. Data collection occurred at pretest, three month, and six month follow-ups with a sample of teenagers randomly selected and assigned to treatment (n = 549) and control (n = 424) groups. Results from logistical and generalized multilevel modeling indicated the program did not contribute to teen responses at three or six month follow-ups. Other variables, however, had some influence on predicting teen responses to questions about their current and future sexual activity. Gender, use of alcohol, and participation in religious services predicted responses from teens at pretest and at three and six month follow-ups. Discussion of the findings, as well as implications for evidence-based social work with teens conclude the article.