Sexual Career Paths of Black Adolescent Females

Abstract

Using data from the 1982 Family Growth Cycle III variables predicting the sexual career paths of Black adolescent females were examined (N = 4,621). Results from this study indicated thatBlack adolescent females ofmiddle and high socioeconomic status became sexually active about the same age. However, age at first conception among Black adolescents of middle socioeconomic status was similar to Black adolescents of low socioeconomic status. Regardless of socioeconomic status, age at first conception for Black adolescent females occurred during late adolescence, with those of high socioeconomic status becoming pregnant later than Black adolescent females of middle or low socioeconomic status. Separate multiple-regression models (by socioeconomic status) were produced. Results from this analysis yielded different estimates for the onset offirst coitus, duration of preconception sexual activity period, and age at first conception among Black adolescent females. Findings from this study have implications for constructing profiles to identify Black adolescent females at risk of early sexual intercourse and early motherhood.