TITLE:
Developmental assets and age of first sexual intercourse among adolescent African American males in Mobile, Alabama
AUTHORS:
Shannon Talbott, Jessica W. Henderson, Linda Stonecipher, John Bolland, Brad Lian
KEYWORDS:
Developmental Assets; Adolescence; Sexual Behavior; African American Males
JOURNAL NAME:
Health,
Vol.5 No.6C,
June
20,
2013
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.