Title: Parents' behavioral norms as predictors of adolescent sexual activity and contraceptive use.

POPLINE Document Number: 057001

Author(s):

Baker SA
Thalberg SP
Morrison DM

Source citation:

Adolescence, 1988 Summer;23(90):265-82.

Abstract:

The influence of parental factors on adolescent sexual behavior and contraceptive use has been examined previously, and findings have been contradictory. Previous US studies, which found little relationship between parental norms and adolescent sexual activity, have been limited by their failure to recognize developmental differences in the relative weight of parent and peer influences between younger and older teens and by use of selected samples, resulting in a restriction of range. The current study differs in that it utilizes a clustered sample household survey of 329 males and females, aged 14 to 17, and 470 of their parents. Using multiple regression analysis, it was found that parents' reported behavioral norms account for 5% of the variance in whether adolescents have had intercourse, and for 33% of the variance in use of contraception at last intercourse. The study suggests that while parents' normative beliefs have limited effect in the decision to become sexually active, they have considerable impact on later contraceptive use. (author's modified)

Keywords:

Washington
United States
North America
Adolescents
Adolescents, Male
Adolescents, Female
Parents
Mothers
Fathers
Attitude
Reproductive Behavior
Contraceptive Usage Determinants
Influentials
Behavior
Sex Behavior
Premarital Sex Behavior
Ethnic Groups
Psychological Factors
Age Factors
Socioeconomic Status
Value Orientation
Interviews
Research Report
Developed Countries
Americas
Youth
Population Characteristics
Demographic Factors
Population
Family Relationships
Family Characteristics
Family and Household
Fertility
Population Dynamics
Contraceptive Usage
Contraception
Family Planning
Knowledge Sources
Communication
Cultural Background
Socioeconomic Factors
Economic Factors
Data Collection
Research Methodology