Developmental assets and age of first sexual intercourse among adolescent African American males in Mobile, Alabama

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.

Developmental Assets and Risky Sexual Behaviors Among American Indian Youth

“…For example, in a large, predominantly White sample of Vermont high school students, the number of youth assets was linked to lower odds of ever having sex (Murphey, Lamonda, Carney, & Duncan, 2004). In addition, assets have been shown to protect against risky sexual behaviors among high school students in South Carolina (Evans et al, 2004) and predict a later age at first sexual intercourse among African American males in Mobile Alabama (Talbott, Henderson, Stonecipher, Bolland, & Lian, 2013). And using a large inner city sample, Oman, Vesely, Aspy, McLeroy, and Luby (2004) found that assets were associated with delayed onset of sexual intercourse and using birth control at last sex.…”

Associations of Adolescent Hopelessness and Self-Worth With Pregnancy Attempts and Pregnancy Desire

“…34 A 2013 study of Mobile Youth Survey (MYS) participants showed that having a positive feeling about the future was marginally associated with older age at first intercourse, a risk factor for adolescent pregnancy. 35 Neither study examined female and male youths separately. Despite the health, social, and economic burdens associated with pregnancy involvement among boys, 9,36,37 little is known about the psychological or cognitive correlates of adolescent paternity risk.…”