The Interagency Workgroup on Teen Pregnancy and STD Prevention is a statewide, stakeholder work group, coordinated through the Governor’s Office for Children, Youth and Families, dedicated to supporting the reduction of teen pregnancies in the state. The group has focused their efforts primarily on developing a comprehensive health education policy for youth in systems of care. This focus is critical as youth in systems of care often have higher rates of pregnancy as well as sexually transmitted infections.

According to the National Campaign to Prevent Teen Pregnancy, nearly half of young women in foster care have been pregnant by age 19, compared to a fifth of their peers not in foster care. While statistics are not as readily available for youth in our juvenile justice systems, the statistics are believed to be comparable. Youth in systems of care often lack positive parental support and guidance, and have developed beliefs and attitudes towards sexuality, sexual behavior and child bearing that result in negative outcomes for themselves and their children.

Participating agencies include:

Governor’s Office for Children Youth and Families
Departments of:
Health
Education
Juvenile Corrections
Economic Security
AHCCCS
Corrections
Administrative Office of the Court

• Define a train-the-trainer system and curriculum for case workers and other adults who maintain a consistent relationship with the youth.
• Institutionalize the training system in state agencies.
• Produce and distribute a pocket guide with basic information and resources for youth and adults working with youth.

In Arizona 27% of teen births are to youth who already have one or more children. The Work Group is researching programs that address prevention of subsequent pregnancies. In 2007 recommendations will be developed regarding provision of programs and services to prevent subsequent pregnancies.