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Published on: March 5, 2020
Prevalence and predictors of low sexual assertiveness
1The Mount Sinai School of Medicine, New York, NY, Baylor College of Medicine, and The University of Texas Medical Branch, Galveston, TX., Houston, TX, USA.
Journal of Pediatric and Adolescent Gynecology
|June 28, 2000
Summary
Low sexual assertiveness (SA) affects 1 in 4 sexually active females, correlating with inconsistent contraception use in two age groups. For 18-21 year olds, low SA is linked to sexual assault and depression, highlighting the need for tailored reproductive health interventions.
Area of Science:
- Reproductive Health
- Sociology
- Psychology
Background:
- Personal beliefs on sexual attitudes and rights significantly influence reproductive health behaviors.
- Understanding sexual assertiveness (SA) is crucial for addressing reproductive health challenges among young females.
Purpose of the Study:
- To determine the prevalence and predictors of low sexual assertiveness (SA) in sexually active females across three age groups: 14-17, 18-21, and 22-26 years old.
- To identify demographic, behavioral, and mental health factors associated with low SA.
Main Methods:
- A cross-sectional study involving 904 sexually active females from family planning clinics in Southeast Texas.
- Anonymous self-report questionnaires assessed demographics, reproductive history, dating behaviors, mental health, assault history, and sexual assertiveness.
- Data analyzed using chi-square and logistic regression, stratified by age group.
Main Results:
- Low SA prevalence was 27% (14-17 yo), 22% (18-21 yo), and 17% (22-26 yo).
- For younger groups, low SA correlated with minority ethnicity, fewer dating partners, and inconsistent birth control use.
- Among 18-21 year olds, low SA was associated with forced sexual contact, depressive symptoms, and inconsistent contraception.
Conclusions:
- Approximately 25% of sexually active females exhibit low SA, a factor linked to inconsistent contraception use.
- Low SA in 18-21 year olds is also associated with adverse experiences like sexual assault and mental health issues.
- Integrating SA assessment into reproductive health services may improve outcomes for unintended pregnancy prevention and reducing sexual coercion.
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