The purpose of this study was to better understand factors related to communication and contraceptive use among college students. Further, the study was undertaken to obtain a better understanding of what is meant by the word "communication" when it is used pertaining to contraceptive use. Aspects related to communication examined were, content of discussion, timing and closure of discussion and satisfaction related to discussion concerning contraceptive use.

The sample consisted of 245 subjects in late adolescence from a state university in Southwest Virginia. Subjects were divided into two categories: "Discussers", those who discussed the use of contraception with their last sexual partner; and, "Non-discussers", those who did not discuss the use of contraception with their last sexual partner. Discussers and Non-discussers were then divided into those subjects in casual relationships, and those subjects in exclusive relationships. The data were collected using a pencil and paper questionnaire.

The results indicated a high usage of contraception among Discussers and Non-discussers in the sample. Results also indicate that relationship status appeared to have been a contributor to the use of contraception, (i.e., those in exclusive relationships were more likely to use contraception). It appears that in casual relationships communication may play an important role in the use of contraception in this group. Results indicate that casual Discussers may show some of the same characteristics (i.e., caring about partner) as those subjects in exclusive relationships.