Dating violence and the sexual health of black adolescent females
Date
2001
Journal Title
Journal ISSN
Volume Title
Publisher
Pediatrics
Abstract
Objective: This study examines the association between having a history of dating violence and the sexual health of adolescent females. Methods: Black adolescent females (n = 522) completed a survey that assessed dating violence, defined as ever having a physically abusive boyfriend, and an interview that assessed sexual behaviors. Results: Dating violence was reported by 18.4% of adolescents (n = 96). Adolescents with a history of dating violence were, in the past 6 months, 2.8 times more likely to have a sexually transmitted disease, 2.8 times more likely to have nonmonogamous male partners, and half as likely to use condoms consistently. Furthermore, adolescents with a history of dating violence were significantly more likely to fear the perceived consequences of negotiating condom use (odds ratio [OR] = 2.8); fear talking with their partner about pregnancy prevention (OR = 2.6); have a higher perceived risk of acquiring a sexually transmitted disease (OR = 2.1); perceive less control over their sexuality (OR = 2.4); have peer norms nonsupportive of using condoms (OR = 3.1); and have norms nonsupportive of having a healthy relationship (OR = 2.1). Conclusions: Adolescents who have experienced dating violence are more likely to exhibit a spectrum of unhealthy sexual behaviors, attitudes, beliefs, and norms. (Author Abstract)
Description
item.page.type
Article
item.page.format
Keywords
child abuse, physical abuse, sexual abuse, teens, youth, Intimate partner violence, research
Citation
Wingood, Gina M.; DiClemente, Ralph J.; McCree, Donna H.; Harrington, Kathy ; Davies, Susan L. (2001). Dating violence and the sexual health of black adolescent females. Pediatrics, 107(5), e72-e72.