The Impact of a High School‐Based Positive Youth Development Program on Sexual Health Outcomes: Results from a Randomized Controlled Trial

BACKGROUND: Although positive youth development (PYD) programs have demonstrated effectiveness in improving adolescent reproductive health outcomes, there is a lack of evidence on effective school‐based interventions designed especially for high school settings. This study examined the efficacy of Peer Group Connection (PGC‐HS), a school‐based PYD program, in improving sexual health outcomes for high school participants. METHODS: A total of 1523 ninth‐grade students at 18 schools were randomly assigned to be offered PGC‐HS or a classes‐as‐usual control condition during 2016 to 2017 and 2017 to 2018 school years. Impacts were assessed on three confirmatory and 6 exploratory outcomes via self‐reported participant questionnaire data collected at the beginning of 10th grade. RESULTS: Although the offer of PGC‐HS had no statistically detectable effect on confirmatory behavioral outcomes (sexual initiation, frequency of sex, and number of sexual partners) at 10th grade follow‐up, causal impact estimates indicate that PGC‐HS participants were less likely than control participants to ever have had vaginal sex. PGC‐HS participants also scored higher on decision‐making skills and perceived connection to peer connectedness. CONCLUSIONS: Results suggest that by building social and emotional skills and helping students form supportive peer relationships, PGC‐HS may encourage students to make healthier choices and avoid risky behaviors during a critical period in high school, thus, reducing the risk of pregnancy.