Adolescent sexual risk behaviors and participation in structured leisure activities (SLA): Role of socio-demographic characteristics and school-related behaviors
Journal Title: Journal of Public Health and Development - Year 2023, Vol 21, Issue 1
Abstract
Adolescence is the transitional period between childhood and adulthood during which many physical, cognitive, social and emotional changes take place, characterized by an increasing interest in romantic and sexual relationships. During adolescence, young people enter into their first sexual partnerships. This may involve behaviors referred to as sexual risk behaviors. The aim of this study was to gain insight into the prevalence of sexual risk behaviors and to determine whether socio-demographic characteristics and school-related behaviors contribute to sexual risk behaviors among adolescents, independent of participation in SLA. The study was conducted from April to June 2021 in Croatia. The sample consisted only of students who reported having had sexual intercourse (N=702; 28.6%). Participants were between 14 and 21 years (46.3% female). Logistic analyses were conducted. The results of this study showed that socio-demographic characteristics make only a limited contribution to the sexual risk behaviors studied. However, it is evident that school-related behaviors are associated with sexual risk behaviors among adolescents, with slight differences depending on their participation in SLA. That is, better grades are a protective factor for sexual risk behavior for both those who do not participate in SLA and those who do, while intentionally skipping school is a risk factor for sexual risk behavior only for those who do participate in SLA. Even though the results show that some school-related behaviors are predictors of sexual risk behavior, it is not enough to implement preventive interventions only in school or leisure settings. It is important to intervene in all areas that influence adolescent development, because a comprehensive preventive approach that addresses all areas can have a greater impact on adolescent development. Therefore, it is necessary to plan comprehensive, evidence-based interventions targeting individuals and their environments, including SLA, to prevent sexual risk behaviors among adolescents.
Authors and Affiliations
Matea B elošević
Keywords
Related Articles
- EP ID EP717280
- DOI 10.55131/jphd/2023/210101
- Views 74
- Downloads 1
Education using instagram on knowledge, attitudes and eating habits as prevention of anemia in adolescent girls in Makassar
In Indonesia the prevalence of anemia is 58.8%, at the age of 5-14 years is 26.8% and at the age 0f 15-24 years is 30.2%. Government initiatives to prevent anemia by dispensing iron supplements without teaching have left...
Spatial analysis of dengue incidence and linear effects with climate conditions in Bandung City Indonesia in 2021-2023
The dengue problem is getting more serious in Indonesia, there has been a threefold increase in dengue cases compared to the previous year. Bandung City is one of the areas contributing the most cases in 2024 (1,741 case...
The impact of a comprehensive physical, mental and spiritual programme on fall risk, physical fitness and blood pressure in elderly residents of nursing homes: An RCT Study
As bodily functions decline, older people encounter various challenges in physical, mental and social well-being, for example risk of falls, hypertension and depression. Physical exercise is among the most recommended so...
Effect of brief training program on first aid knowledge and practice among students aged 13-15 years: a pre-post-test study
School health services are almost neglected due to minimized awareness concerning common health problems and first aid management. This study aims at evaluating the effect of a brief training program on improving knowled...
Dance-based interventions on balance and falls in the elderly in order to health promotion: a literature review
A balance disorder is one of the most common disorders in older people that leads to falls and endangers the health of the elderly. Falls can result in both physical injuries and psychological problems. Many economic bur...