Abstract
Background and Aims: Younger age at first sexual intercourse is associated with a variety of adverse health outcomes. We aimed to gain a clearer understanding of a wide range of individual, family and social factors that may influence sexual behavior of children and adolescents. Specifically, we examined the relationships of developmental assets with age of first sexual intercourse among a large sample (n = 1061) of adolescent African American males living in low-income neighborhoods in Mobile, Alabama. Methods: Using the Developmental Asset Model as a theoretical guide, we selected variables from adolescent survey data and conducted logistic regression analysis to determine predictors of early age of first sexual intercourse. Results: Nearly one half (49%) of the male survey participants reported that they first had sexual intercourse at the age of 12 or younger. The total number of assets was the strongest predictor of later age (13 years old or later) of first sexual intercourse (OR 1.49, 95% CI = 1.09, 2.04), followed by decision-making skills (OR 1.40, 95% CI = 1.04, 1.86), and positive view of the future (OR 1.36, 95% CI = 1.02, 1.74). Conclusion: There are several developmental assets related to the age of first sexual intercourse. This study found support for the Developmental Asset Model as a framework for promoting sexual and overall adolescent health. Recommendations for asset-building among this population are discussed.
Highlights
Unplanned teen pregnancies and sexually transmitted infections (STIs) are commonly recognized public health concerns
The purpose of this study was to examine youth assets and their association with age of initial sexual intercourse among a large population of young African American males living in low-income neighborhoods in Mobile, Alabama
There were a total of 1061 African American males between the ages of 13 - 18 years in this study
Summary
Unplanned teen pregnancies and sexually transmitted infections (STIs) are commonly recognized public health concerns. The HIV/AIDS incidence in the general population in the US has persisted at about 50,000 new cases each year, and young adults and teens continue to be at risk [4] Given these enduring public health concerns and the current political and social controversy regarding sex education, it is crucial to develop a clearer understanding of factors related to teen sexuality [5,6]. Risk factors for teen pregnancy and/or STIs cited in the literature have included: substance abuse, stronger risk-taking attitudes, male dominance, risky peer norms, being away from home for long periods, and dropping out of school [8,9] This approach focuses on negative factors of teens that need to be “fixed”, rather than focusing on potentially positive strengths, or assets, that may be important for healthy teen sexuality.
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