Work

Family and peer support matter for precoital and coital behaviors among adolescents in Lima

Year: 2014

Type: article

Abstract: We analyzed the association between sub-scales developed with adolescents and the outcomes of precoital behaviors and vaginal sex in Lima, Peru. Adolescent participants in key informant sessions operationalized concepts identified during qualitative concept mapping into several sub-scales. Face and content validity testing and pilot application with respondent debriefing were used to refine the sub-scales. Three hundred 15-17 year olds were surveyed about the sub-scales, socio-demographics and sexual behaviors. Exploratory factor analysis confirmed six sub-scales, self-image, goals and decision-making, family education, parental rules/control, school support and peer support, which we regressed on the outcomes. Twice as many males as females reported more than three precoital behaviors and vaginal sex. Higher peer support reduced the likelihood of vaginal sex and precoital behaviors and higher family education reduced precoital behaviors. Results affirm the importance of including adolescents in the entire research process and of sex education with family- and peer-based strategies.

Source: Journal of Adolescence

DOI: 10.1016/j.adolescence.2014.09.010

Authors: Angela M. Bayer, Lilia Z. Cabrera, Robert H. Gilman, Michelle J. Hindin, Amy O. Tsui

Institutions: University of California, Los Angeles, Universidad Peruana Cayetano Heredia, Prisma, Johns Hopkins University

Language: English

Topic: Adolescent Sexual and Reproductive Health

Subfield: General Health Professions

Field: Health Professions

Domain: Health Sciences

SDGs: Good health and well-being, Gender equality, Quality education

Open Access status: green

Funders: National Institutes of Health, Medical Research Council, Fogarty International Center, Eunice Kennedy Shriver National Institute of Child Health and Human Development