Year: 2018
Type: article
Abstract: Empirical research shows that risky sexual behavior is common in adolescents,and younger teenagers are engaging in unprotected sex. Thefollowing research paper examines the existing literature on the topicsof parent-adolescent relationships as predictors of risky behavior amongadolescents. Prior research has shown a link between insecure parent-adolescentattachment and risky sexual behavior. The current study specificallybuilt on this literature by examining parent-adolescent attachment asa correlate of unprotected sex. Results indicated adolescents who reportedless secure attachments in their relationships with their parents, includinglower trust and communication factors were more likely to engage inunprotected sex. Unprotected sex, sexually transmitted infections, andthe unplanned pregnancies that may result are a main concern for thehealth of adolescents. Future research should extend the findings of thecurrent study by looking specifically at the kind of parent-adolescentcommunication about sexual health that can be most effective in preventingsexual risk taking. Further, schools may be able to reduce unprotectedsex, unplanned pregnancies, and sexually transmitted infections by fosteringtrusting communication between teachers, counselors, and students.
Author: Estrella Godinez
Language: English
Field: Medicine
Domain: Health Sciences
Open Access status: diamond
OpenAlex ID: W2914436072