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The reasons for attendance at the clinic were:—
1. Acne and skin disorders 9
2. Obesity and adolescent problems 2
3. Lump in breast and adolescent problems 1
4. Social and adolescent problems 9
5. Discussion groups 23
Source of referral:—
1. Parents 10
2. School 4
3. N.S.P.C.C 1
The remainder were brought by friends or referred from school medical inspections.
Topics discussed:—
Hobbies and jobs
Adolescence in society
Personal hygiene
Menstruation
Personality
Anatomy of reproduction
Birth of a baby
Development of baby
With the consent of the parents films on the physiology of sex were shown to the
school leavers and were followed by a discussion.
We found that the films on the physiology of sex were not popular. The main
criticism was "they knew all the main points of the films" and that in any case the
detail was much too technical—a criticism which we had made at the preview. The
discussions, however, were useful both to us and, I feel, to the adolescents.
During 1962 we propose to try a different selection of films and include a film on
venereal disease as we have been asked many questions on this by the older children.
The most popular discussions were on child development and baby care (with the
girls) and hobbies. We were amazed at the wide range of interests our adolescents had,
and also their knowledge of these subjects.
We found that generally speaking the discussion was best stimulated by a short talk
by a member of the staff, and it was interesting to note that whilst there was occasionally
severe criticism of adults, this was frequently turned against members of their own group.
We also found that routine medical examinations were intensely unpopular. If the
children came because of a health worry they co-operated whole-heartedly, but otherwise
could not be induced to submit to this so we decided to waive the medical for
children attending the discussion groups only.
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