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Developmental investigation of age at sexual debut and subsequent sexual risk behaviours: a study of high-risk young black males.

Authors :
Crosby R
Geter A
Ricks J
Jones J
Salazar LF
Source :
Sexual health [Sex Health] 2015 Oct; Vol. 12 (5), pp. 390-6.
Publication Year :
2015

Abstract

Unlabelled: Background The purpose of this study was to identify unmediated associations of early sexual debut (ESD) on the current safer sex practices of young Black men (YBM).<br />Methods: A cross-sectional study of YBM (n=697) attending clinics treating sexually transmissible diseases (STIs) in three cities was conducted. ESD was dichotomised at the age of 13 years and under. A series of regression models were used to test the moderating effects of ESD and perceived parental monitoring (PPM). A regression model also tested the effect of years of sexual experience (YSE) on sexual risk behaviours, while controlling for ESD.<br />Results: Mean age of debut was 13.95 years. ESD results varied with significance for pregnancy (P<0.001), sexual partners (P<0.001), and ever having chlamydia (assessed by self report), but this final association was only found for older males (P=0.03). PPM held no moderating effect on any of the sexual risk outcomes. YSE was correlated with an increase in recent unprotected vaginal sex (AOR=1.19, 95%CI=1.10-1.27) and having a pregnant partner at the time of enrolment (AOR=1.30, 95%CI=1.17-1.43).<br />Conclusions: The findings provide mixed evidence for unmediated associations of ESD among young Black males. The study strongly posits that ESD may actually be a mediating variable rather than a causal explanation for sexual risk. The findings also suggest that advancing YSE foster diminishing vigilance in safer sex practices. These outcomes should be utilised to inform intervention development.

Details

Language :
English
ISSN :
1448-5028
Volume :
12
Issue :
5
Database :
MEDLINE
Journal :
Sexual health
Publication Type :
Academic Journal
Accession number :
26117717
Full Text :
https://doi.org/10.1071/SH14074