Validation of an instrument to evaluate gender conditioners and contraception in Argentine adolescents

Abstract

INTRODUCTION: Despite the policies and programs implemented, Argentine statistics show a high number of births from adolescent pregnancies. In order to explore the relationship between gender constraints, behavior and adolescent sexual  health, the present study sought to validate a questionnaire on gender constraints and contraception (Cogant) developed in  Spain. METHODS: An observational cross-sectional study was conducted to evaluate the validity and psychometric properties of  the Cogant in Argentine adolescents. RESULTS: The study included 657 women under 20 years of age, who participated in  educational workshops organized by public institutions in the provinces of Chaco, Corrientes and Buenos Aires. The overall  internal consistency of the instrument showed high reliability (Cronbach alpha 0.857). The factor analysis suggested the  retention of 7 underlying factors that explain 61.6% of the variance of the questionnaire. DISCUSSION: The evaluation of Cogant psychometric measures in Argentina showed similar results to those found in Spanish adolescents, although fewer factors were retained than in the original study. The Cogant could help identify the characteristics of behaviors related to sexuality,  unplanned pregnancy and motherhood, allowing health personnel to prioritize education and health care strategies for Argentine adolescents.