Adolescence is a crucial period marked by significant developmental changes,during which risk-taking behaviors can be both a normative part of development and a potential source of concern.However,prior research has f...Adolescence is a crucial period marked by significant developmental changes,during which risk-taking behaviors can be both a normative part of development and a potential source of concern.However,prior research has focused predominantly on the adverse aspects of risk-taking(i.e.,negative risk-taking),overlooked the positive counterpart(i.e.,positive risk-taking),and lacked a detailed examination of both.This study aims to elucidate the distinct characteristics and interrelationships of positive and negative risk-taking behaviors among adoles-cents and to identify the key factors that influence these behaviors.Through a comprehensive synthesis of theoretical and empirical literature,we explore the multifaceted nature of risk-taking,highlighting its complex influencing factors,including individual traits,family dynamics,peer influence,school environment,and broader community contexts.By identifying the shared and unique factors contributing to positive and negative risk-taking behaviors,we can enable adolescents to navigate this complex stage of life and design targeted interventions.Future research directions include the application of person-centered approaches,the implementation of longitudinal tracking and the interactive effects of influencing factors,among other aspects.展开更多
Background Adolescents’subjective well-being(SWB)is strongly linked to mental health,academic achievement,social relationships,and quality of life,and is a key predictor of life outcomes in adulthood.Mental health an...Background Adolescents’subjective well-being(SWB)is strongly linked to mental health,academic achievement,social relationships,and quality of life,and is a key predictor of life outcomes in adulthood.Mental health and addictive behaviors are the two main factors influencing SWB.This study aimed to identify key mental health and addictive behavior factors associated with adolescent SWB through machine learning models.Methods The data for this study comes from the Health Behaviour in School-aged Children(HBSC)survey 2017/18.The study data contains health data from 60,450 adolescents aged 10–16 years.The study used the XGBoost machine learning model to analyze the impact of mental health and addictive behaviors on adolescent SWB.Gain was used to analyze the significance of the variables.The direction of action of the variables and the interaction between the variables were analyzed using the SHapley Additive exPlanations(SHAP)method.Results The model in this study has an accuracy of 86.7%and an AUC value of 0.85,showing its good predictive performance.Six key variables were filtered through Gain analysis.Feeling low and health as the two most important factors affecting SWB,with these two variables contributing 51.38%and 19.65%,respectively.Friends and thinking body as major factors influencing SWB in mental health.Smoking lifetime and sweets as major factors influencing SWB in addictive behaviors.The interactions and characteristic dependencies between these variables were further analyzed.The results showed that feeling low,friends,and sweets had a positive effect on SWB,while health and smoking lifetime showed a negative effect.In addition,a moderate thinking body contributes to SWB,whereas being too fat and too thin are both associated with decreased levels of SWB.Conclusion Mental health and addictive behavioral factors such as feeling low,friends,sweets,and smoking lifetime were significant factors influencing SWB.This provides a scientific basis for the development of public health policies and interventions aimed at enhancing adolescent well-being.展开更多
Objective:This study aimed to examine the developmental trajectories of internalizing behaviors among adolescents and to identify key personal and environmental factors associated with these developmental patterns ove...Objective:This study aimed to examine the developmental trajectories of internalizing behaviors among adolescents and to identify key personal and environmental factors associated with these developmental patterns over time.Methods:Data were collected from 2242 adolescents(49.6%girls,aged 13.9–18.9 years)in South Korea.Latent class growth analysis was used to identify distinct developmental patterns of internalizing behaviors.Multinomial logistic regression analyses were conducted to examine the associations between these developmental patterns and various factors including gender,self-esteem,abuse and neglect experiences,peer relationships,and media use.Results:The analysis revealed three latent classes of internalizing behavior trajectories among adolescents.The first group,the“mid decreasing group”,comprised 54.5%of the sample(1221 students),indicating a moderate level of internalizing behavior that declined over time.The second group,the“high decreasing group”,included 19.1%of the sample(429 students),characterized by initially high levels of internalizing behavior that decreased.The third group,the“low maintained group”,represented 26.4%of the sample(592 students),indicating consistently low levels of internalizing behavior.Factors such as gender,self-esteem,experiences of abuse and neglect,peer relationships(trust and alienation),smartphone dependency,and time spent watching TV/videos were significantly associated with these latent groups.Conclusion:Three distinct developmental patterns of internalizing behaviors were identified among adolescents:mid-decreasing(54.5%),high-decreasing(19.1%),and low-maintained(26.4%).Gender,self-esteem,abuse experiences,and peer relationships were significant predictors of these developmental patterns.展开更多
Background:Adverse childhood experiences(ACEs)are a significant issue in adolescent health due to their robust correlation with deficits in executive functions(EF)and health risk behaviors(HRBs).This study aimed to ex...Background:Adverse childhood experiences(ACEs)are a significant issue in adolescent health due to their robust correlation with deficits in executive functions(EF)and health risk behaviors(HRBs).This study aimed to examine the association between ACEs and a range of HRBs,including substance use,sexual risk behavior,suicidal ideation,physical inactivity,and violence.Methods:This cross-sectional study used self-administered questionnaire and cluster sampling in seven junior high schools in Samarinda,Indonesia,with a sample size of 534 students.Data analysis using descriptive statistics,the Chi-square test,the independent t-test,ANOVA,binary logistic regression,and mediation analysis with macro-PROCESS.Results:The most common ACEs were community violence(68.0%),physical neglect(52.8%),psychological/emotional abuse(52.6%),physical abuse(50.4%),and peer bullying(45.9%).Adolescents with more than five ACEs showed significantly higher involvement in smoking/vaping(67.9%),suicidal ideation(75.2%),sexual risk behavior(57.7%),bullying(64.3%),and physical fighting(59.7%)(p<0.001).ACEs were significantly correlated with EF deficits(r=0.471,p<0.01)and HRB(r=0.578,p<0.01).Regression analysis confirmed that ACEs predicted EF deficits(β=0.466,p<0.001)and HRB(β=0.469,p<0.001),with EF deficits partially mediating this relationship(β=0.107,95%CI[0.045,0.094]).In addition,two subdomains of EF deficits,self-motivation(β=0.042)and self-regulation of emotion(β=0.032),significantlymediated the relationship between ACEs and HRBs.Conclusion:These findings suggest an important role for EF deficits in linking childhood adversity to engagement in risky behaviors.Addressing ACEs and EF deficits(self-motivation and self-regulation of emotion)through early intervention may be important in reducing long-term health risks among Indonesian adolescents.展开更多
Objective To explore the endocfinal factors which influence the aggressive behavior of adolescents. Methods The levels of cortisol （CORT）, testosterone （T）, prolactin （PRL）, and growth hormone （GH） in saliva f...Objective To explore the endocfinal factors which influence the aggressive behavior of adolescents. Methods The levels of cortisol （CORT）, testosterone （T）, prolactin （PRL）, and growth hormone （GH） in saliva from 20 aggressive students and 20 non-aggressive control students were measured by radioimmunoassay （RIA）. The students were matched for their gender, age, grade, stage of pubertal development, and economic status of their families. Results The salivary T levels were 22.20±14.50 pg/mL and 19.54±12.52 pg/mL in aggressive male and female students, 13.20±6.85 pg/mL and 5.24±3.03 pg/mL in non-aggressive male and female students （P〈0.05）. The male aggressive students had a lower level of CORT in saliva than non-aggressive male students （P〈0.05）. There were no significant differences in the salivary levels of PRL or GH between the aggressive and non-aggressive groups. Correlation analysis revealed a negative relationship in male students between the salivary CORT levels and the aggression factor scores of the child behavior checklist （CBCL）. In addition, the data also showed a positive relationship between the salivary T levels and the aggression factor scores of CBCL in female students. Multiple linear regression analysis showed that the salivary CORT level was an independent predictive factor for aggressive behaviors in adolescent boys. The higher the CORT level, the less aggressive the boys were. Conclusion CORT and T levels may play a certain role in adolescent aggressive behaviors.展开更多
In order to identify family factors obviously relevant to aggression, and offer a theoretical foundation for the prevention of aggression, 4010 students from primary and secondary schools in 5 different areas in Hubei...In order to identify family factors obviously relevant to aggression, and offer a theoretical foundation for the prevention of aggression, 4010 students from primary and secondary schools in 5 different areas in Hubei province were surveyed. The Child Behavior Checklist ＂ parents＂ form＂ （Chinese version） and the four scales of Family Environment Scale were used. A multiple logistic regression was used to identify risk factors of children＇s and adolescents＂ aggressive behavior. The results showed that maternal education, paternal occupation, family type, parental child-rearing attitude and patterns, students＂ interpersonal relationship were significantly associated with the childreffs and adolescents＂ aggression. The risk factors of aggression were parental child-rearing patterns, peer relationship, teacher-student relationship, and family conflicts.展开更多
Background: Adolescent obesity is associated with high cardiovascular and metabolic risk. Western diet and reduced physical activity are strong environmental determinants. The “Health Production” model posits that i...Background: Adolescent obesity is associated with high cardiovascular and metabolic risk. Western diet and reduced physical activity are strong environmental determinants. The “Health Production” model posits that individuals born with a certain amount of health stock, which depreciates over life, but can be augmented by individual behaviors, including exercise and dieting. Objective: To study the association between health production and obesity in a random sample of 1692 Chilean adolescents (14.8 ± 0.7 years old), and to study the effect of gender and socioeconomic characteristics on health production. Method: We used an indicator that considered the quality of food intake and physical activity, establishing three categories: good (GHP), intermediate (IHP) and poor health producers (PHP). Multivariate analysis was used to study the odds of obesity and good health production. Results: There was 31% of GHP, 32% of IHP and 38% of PHP. Obesity (Adj. OR: 1.59;95%CI: 1.04 - 2.42) and abdominal obesity (Adj. OR: 2.24;95%CI: 1.35 - 3.40) were significantly higher in the PHP group, compared to the GHP and IHP group. Health production was significantly associated with socioeconomic factors and gender. Female sex and coming from a less wealthy household significantly reduced the odds of good health production. Conclusions: Poor health production in adolescence, as defined by food intake and physical activity, depreciates individuals’ “health stock”, increasing the risk of obesity. In our sample, health production was strongly associated with socio-economic factors and gender.展开更多
BACKGROUND Health-related risky behaviors generally refer to behaviors that have a negative impact on health and quality of life.Health-related risky behaviors in adolescents with high-functioning autism(HFA)have not ...BACKGROUND Health-related risky behaviors generally refer to behaviors that have a negative impact on health and quality of life.Health-related risky behaviors in adolescents with high-functioning autism(HFA)have not been well understood so far.Adolescents with HFA may have more health-related risky behaviors than neurotypical adolescents.AIM To investigate health-related risky behaviors and their risk factors with HFA.METHODS This is an observational study.Our study enrolled 110 adolescents aged 12-19-years-old meeting Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders 4th edition criteria for HFA.They were recruited from Peking University Sixth Hospital.There were also 110 age,sex and nationality matched controls enrolled who came from a public school in Beijing,China.Both groups completed the Adolescents Health-related Risky Behavior Inventory.Nonparametric tests were carried out for comparison of the Adolescents Health-related Risky Behavior Inventory scores between the two groups.Expression recognition,the Inventory of Subjective Life Quality for Child and Adolescent,Chinese Wechsler Intelligence Scale for Children,Wechsler Intelligence Scale for Adult-Chinese Revised,Theory of Mind test and Autism Spectrum Screening Questionnaire were assessed in the autism group to explore factors associated with health-related risky behaviors.Multivariate regression analysis was conducted to explore the risk factors of health-related risky behaviors in the HFA group.RESULTS The results showed that the total score of the Adolescents Health-related Risky Behavior Inventory and scores of“aggression and violence,”“suicide and selfinjury,”“health compromising behavior”and“unprotected sex”subscales in the HFA group were significantly higher than those in the control group(Z range-4.197 to-2.213,P<0.05).Among the associated factors,poor emotional experience(B=-0.268,P<0.001),depression(B=-0.321,P<0.001),low score of intelligence(B=-0.032,P=0.042),low score of Theory of Mind test(B=-1.321,P=0.003)and poor adaptation to school life(B=-0.152,P=0.006)were risk factors.These risky behaviors may promote the occurrence of health-related risky behaviors in adolescents with HFA.CONCLUSION This study showed that adolescents with HFA were more likely to be involved in health-related risky behaviors.Different health-related risky behaviors have different reasons.展开更多
ObjectiveTo present an approach to phenotyping ACEs and explore the association between ACEs and adolescent health risky behaviors based on the social context of China.Methods Totally,5,726 adolescents aged 12-18 year...ObjectiveTo present an approach to phenotyping ACEs and explore the association between ACEs and adolescent health risky behaviors based on the social context of China.Methods Totally,5,726 adolescents aged 12-18 years were investigated about their ACEs in the family,peer,school,and personal domains and the occurrence of six types of risky health behaviors(i.e.,smoking,drinking,sexual intercourse,self-harm,and suicidal ideation and attempts).Latent class analysis(LCA)was used to explore the ACE patterns.Results Six latent classes of ACEs were identified,including low adversity,school adversity,school adversity and peer victimization,peer victimization,maltreatment and peer victimization,and high adversity,and associated with risky health behaviors in adolescents.Being physically punished by a teacher,experiencing sexual abuse,and experiencing family trauma most strongly differentiated from the six AcE classes and were correlated with an increased risk for risky adolescent health behaviors.ConclusionThis study supports a positive association between ACEs and risky adolescent health behaviors.Peer victimization,school adversity and associated contexts need to be considered in future ACEstudies.展开更多
Objective:This study aimed to examine the association between parent-child relationships and physically aggressive behavior among adolescents.Methods:This is a cross-sectional study that uses secondary data from the 2...Objective:This study aimed to examine the association between parent-child relationships and physically aggressive behavior among adolescents.Methods:This is a cross-sectional study that uses secondary data from the 2015 Indonesia Global School-Based Health Survey(IGSHS).Health surveys were conducted in 75 schools representing three regions(Sumatra,Java-Bali;Outer Sumatra;and Java-Bali)in 26 provinces and 68 districts/cities in Indonesia(N=10,139 students).Students who participated were aged 12-19 years,were enrolled in public schools in the junior and high school levels.Results:It has been seen that for most middle-aged adolescents(58.7%),their parents(25%-29%)pay less attention to academic assignments(homework),problems,and use of free time.The most significant factors that influence adolescents to commit violence are smoking and consuming alcohol.Adolescents who smoke are twice as likely to commit physical violence compared with adolescents who do not smoke(OR=2.005;95%CI=1.7062-2.396).Meanwhile,adolescents who consume alcohol are 1.8 times more likely to commit physical violence compared with adolescents who do not consume alcohol(OR=1.807;95%CI=1.421-2.298).Conclusions:Through educational activities and consultations,this study’s findings are valuable for establishing parenting programs among those concerned about their children’s aggressive behavior.Meanwhile,counseling programs can be started in schools by conducting self-detection of negative adolescent behavior,such as screening for smoking,alcohol consumption,sleep issues,and attempted suicide.展开更多
Parenting skill is one of the crucial needs that parents must have in caring adolescents’ sexual health risk behavior. Present study aims to determine predictors of parenting skills in preventing adolescents’ sexual...Parenting skill is one of the crucial needs that parents must have in caring adolescents’ sexual health risk behavior. Present study aims to determine predictors of parenting skills in preventing adolescents’ sexual health risk behavior. A cross sectional study was conducted among adolescents’ parents who attended government health clinics in a semi-urban district, West Malaysia. Data were collected by systematic random sampling using validated questionnaire from eight government health clinics based on routine daily out-patient services. There were 386 respondents participated with 98.9% of response rate. Parental skill is categorized as appropriate or inappropriate based on Trans-Theoretical Model (TTM) staging. Eighteen independent variables were used: parental socioeconomic status, adolescent characteristic, parenting style, parent-adolescent communication, parental stress, perception on adolescent sexual risk, comfortable in discussing sexual issues, knowledge in sexual reproductive health (SRH) and knowledge in HIV/AIDS. Assessment of parenting skills using the TTM stage showed 139 respondents (36%) had inappropriate parenting skills, in which they were in pre contemplation, contemplation or preparedness stages, while 247 respondents (64%) showed appropriate parenting skills when they were in action and maintenance stages of TTM. Older parent, late adolescent, low parental education level, extended family living arrangement, comfortable in discussing sexual issues, good parent-adolescent communication and higher knowledge in HIV/AIDS were found significant in bivariate analysis. Multivariate logistic regression analysis identified older parent (AOR = 1.927, 95% CI = 1.889 - 1.966, p < 0.001), lower parental education (AOR = 2.394, 95% CI = 1.348 - 4.254, p = 0.003), comfortable in discussing sexual issues (AOR = 3.810, 95% CI = 1.622 - 8.948, p = 0.002), good parent-adolescent communication (AOR = 4.741, 95% CI = 2.478 - 9.071, p ≤ 0.001) and having higher knowledge on HIV/AIDS (AOR = 2.804, 95% CI = 1.528 - 5.147, p = 0.001) as significant predictors for appropriate parenting skills in preventing adolescent sexual health risk behavior. In conclusion, more than one third of parents were still not ready in preventing adolescent sexual risk behavior. Targeting the young parents and those having difficulty in communicating sexual issues with theirs adolescents should be emphasized in early intervention program for parents. Self-assessment using TTM stage questionnaire will help parents to identify their parenting skills in preventing adolescent sexual health risk behavior.展开更多
Objective： This article aimed to evaluate the effects of an educational intervention programme on improving peer educator （PE） knowledge in issues around growth and development and its risk behavior problems of ado...Objective： This article aimed to evaluate the effects of an educational intervention programme on improving peer educator （PE） knowledge in issues around growth and development and its risk behavior problems of adolescents in Indonesia. Methods： The study was conducted in 31 of PEs to evaluate their knowledge in adolescents. The PEs received health education and were assessed by individual work during the structured three-week programme. Data were collected before and after the training programme as pre- and post-tests. Results： The PE demonstrated significant improvements in their knowledge after attending the three-week structured training programme. The post-test scores had significant effects on the dimensions of PE knowledge scores. The PE become knowledgeable to maintain and monitor adolescents health issues around growth and development and its risk behavior problems of adolescents. Conclusions： The PE become knowledgeable to respond to the adolescent problems and readiness to become PE during puberty.展开更多
The current study examined the prevalence and clustering of 5 health-risk behaviors among adolescents in Hawaii, including physical inactivity, low fruit and vegetable consumption, junk food consumption, excessive tel...The current study examined the prevalence and clustering of 5 health-risk behaviors among adolescents in Hawaii, including physical inactivity, low fruit and vegetable consumption, junk food consumption, excessive television time, and inadequate sleep. High school students were recruited from 5 classrooms in Oahu Hawaii. Data were collected in the spring semester of 2011. Proportions were used to describe the prevalence of single and multiple health risk behaviors. Significant health behavior clusters were revealed using an observed-to-expected (O/E) ratio method. Participating adolescents (n = 114) were 11th and 12th grade students with a mean age of 16.28 (SD = 0.62). Participants were predominantly female (75%) and Filipino-American (68%). Seventy-seven percent of adolescents were physically inactive, 90% watched excessive TV, 66% consumed inadequate fruits and vegetables, 94% reported inadequate levels of sleep, and 80% consumed excessive junk food. Overall, 94% reported at least 3 risk factors, 73% reported at least 4 risk factors, and 37% reported all 5 risk factors. No significant clusters were found. Conclusion: Health-risk behaviors cluster and occur more often than expected among adolescents living in Hawaii. Non-significant clustering may be due to insufficient variability within the sample data;future examinations of this highly understudied population are necessary.展开更多
Purpose: This study analyzed treatment effects of cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT) group counseling intervention on HIV transmission risk behavior, depression, anxiety, and alcohol use in HIV perinatally infected ad...Purpose: This study analyzed treatment effects of cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT) group counseling intervention on HIV transmission risk behavior, depression, anxiety, and alcohol use in HIV perinatally infected adolescents attending an HIV clinical care center in Uganda, Africa. Method: A total of 186 adolescents were randomly assigned to an experimental or control arm and assigned into groups of 11 - 16 adolescents. The experimental groups received an 80-minute CBT based weekly intervention for 8 consecutive weeks, while the control groups received only standard group care. Data from self report assessments were analyzed at pre- and post-test using repeated measures of analysis of variance. The participants, analyzed by variable, included 115 for sexual behavior, 106 for depression, 88 for anxiety, and 115 for alcohol use. Results: The results from the study show a large significant difference (p = 0.006) between the experimental and control groups on the anxiety variable. There were no significant differences between the experimental and control groups on the variables of sexual behavior (p = 0.876), depression (p = 0.700), and alcohol use (p = 0.815). There was an indication of reduced levels of HIV sexual transmission risk behavior, depression, and alcohol use levels in the participants in both the experimental and control groups. Conclusions: Risky sexual behavior places HIV perinatally infected adolescents at risk of re-infection, sexually transmitted diseases, and transmitting HIV to their sexual partners. CBT group counseling intervention equipped the participating adolescents with appropriate life skills to deal with psychological distress and anxiety often seen in their lives and may be useful in routine medical care to reduce transmission risks and improve wellness and call for its incorporation into HIV preventive programs and counselor education.展开更多
Context: With the view to reorient both STI/HIV/AIDS prevention and adolescents pregnancies, this research study aims at evaluating cognitive and behavioral acquisitions, as well as the process of interactive sex educ...Context: With the view to reorient both STI/HIV/AIDS prevention and adolescents pregnancies, this research study aims at evaluating cognitive and behavioral acquisitions, as well as the process of interactive sex education participatory approach among adolescents in Kinshasa high schools. Methods: Based on a “pre and post” virtually experimental design, two crosswise surveys were conducted in Kinshasa, for six months in 2011-2012 on 484 high school students (pre-survey) and on 441 high school students (post-survey), whose age range from 14 - 19 years including both sexes. Two participatory educational talks (PET) “A” and “B”, covered weekly in two different schools, were compared to a control group school. The PET “A” consisted of interactive interpersonal communication sessions given by an external expert as a substitute for the life education course in one school. The PET “B” carried out in another school, included more educational talk sessions, led by the external expert and supplemented by a close follow-up of teenagers divided into small groups of 10 participants. The subjects’ assessment was based on their knowledge, attitudes and practices relating to STI/HIV/AIDS dual prevention as well as to unwanted pregnancies. Results: The subjects involved in the PET “B” displayed a better/higher performance based on their knowledge, attitudes and practices related to STI/HIV/AIDS dual prevention and unwanted pregnancies. Broadly speaking, knowledge has been improved 6 times with the PET “B” (OR = 6, 10, IC 95%) (3.24 - 11.9), and 3 times with the PET “A” (OR = 3, 45, IC 95%) (1.79 - 6.81), compared to control school. Similarly, findings on subjects’ attitudes show an improvement rated 12 times with the PET”B” (OR = 11, 99, IC 95%) (5.67 - 27.38) and 5 times for the PET “A” (OR = 5.51, IC 95%) (2.54 - 12.87). As far as the subjects’ practices are concerned, an improvement of 6 more times of protected sexual intercourses with the PET “B” compared with the control school group (OR = 6, 52, IC 95%) (3.60 - 12.0). The process assessment records a spontaneous involvement of schools enhanced by the positive contribution of Life Education and Biology teachers;add a massive participation of adolescents who requested permanent PET program. Conclusion: The results of this study suggest that school sexual education programs can be improved to increase the quality of apprenticeship. The use of interactive methods and the consideration of the adolescents’ specific needs that take into account the gender approach may bring about beneficial advantages on both educational outcomes and reproductive health of adolescents.展开更多
In 2010, the World Health Organization supported the Lebanese Ministry of Education and Higher Education to establish a network of 10 Health Promoting Schools (HPS). This study was undertaken to address the extent to ...In 2010, the World Health Organization supported the Lebanese Ministry of Education and Higher Education to establish a network of 10 Health Promoting Schools (HPS). This study was undertaken to address the extent to which the HPS model was able to produce changes in the risk behaviors of adolescents (Smoking, Drinking, and Drug Use) and prepare them to respond to evolving health challenges. A cross-sectional survey was carried out during 2011-2012 and compared Grade 6 - 9 students in HPS, and 10 other public and private schools. The Youth Risk Behavior Survey [1], and Carbon Monoxide measurements in adolescent breaths were used for data collection. Findings revealed that the current School Health Program failed to address issues of concern to adolescents with no significant differences in risk behaviors: smoking, alcohol and drug use. The HPS network needs reassessment to upgrade the outcomes of health education curricula. Expected learning outcomes and healthy practices must be designed to match students’ age, grade level, and developmental milestones.展开更多
This study investigated the roles of adolescent popularity and likeability in eight domains of risk-taking in Australian grade 9 students (53% girls). The eight domains included previously examined areas of aggressive...This study investigated the roles of adolescent popularity and likeability in eight domains of risk-taking in Australian grade 9 students (53% girls). The eight domains included previously examined areas of aggressive behaviours, alcohol use, and sexual intercourse, and areas where there is scarce information, including antisocial activities, unprotected intercourse, body image-related risk-taking, unsafe road practices, and stranger-related risk-taking. The results indicated a clear association between popularity and higher risk-taking in five of the eight domains. This is contrasted with likeability, which was not directly related to risk-taking aside from one two-way interaction with gender for sexual intercourse. The findings demonstrate the importance of including a broader range of risk-taking activities when considering popularity, particularly stranger-related risk-taking.展开更多
Introduction: The substantial changes that occur in adolescence may lead to sexual behaviors that adversely affect their health. We have described sexual patterns in adolescents in various neighborhoods of Yaounde in ...Introduction: The substantial changes that occur in adolescence may lead to sexual behaviors that adversely affect their health. We have described sexual patterns in adolescents in various neighborhoods of Yaounde in order to underscore the sexual challenges that they face. Methods: We carried out a cross-sectional descriptive study in District number V of Yaounde from August 1st to 31st 2018. To characterize their sexual lives, we surveyed 1800 adolescents between 10 and 19, and analyzed the data using SPSS version 25.0. Results: In our study, 1023 (56.8%) adolescents were female, and 777 (43.2%) were male. Most of the adolescents were between ages 18 and 19 years (25.4%), unmarried (93.1%), had a secondary level of education (81.9%) and lived with their families (87.3%). One-third of the adolescents (30.7%) were sexually active and 41.1% had multiple sexual partners. The average age of coitarche was 15.1 years. Among the females, 17.1% reported one prior pregnancy and 30.8% had one abortion. Most of the sexual encounters were heterosexual (82.6%) and 30.2% regularly used male condoms. 66.0% and 47.7% obtained information about sexuality primarily from social media and mass media, respectively. Conclusion: Sexual encounters in adolescents of District V of Yaounde were premature, mostly heterosexual and often unprotected. The consequences were an increased incidence of early pregnancies and abortions.展开更多
Background: Understanding ecological factors that influence risky sexual behavior of adolescents is vital in designing and implementing sexual risk reduction interventions in specific contexts. Interventions undertake...Background: Understanding ecological factors that influence risky sexual behavior of adolescents is vital in designing and implementing sexual risk reduction interventions in specific contexts. Interventions undertaken without understanding the critical factors may not produce the desired results. Objective: The objective of this study was to identify the factors associated with adolescent risky sexual behavior among school adolescents in Addis Ababa, Ethiopia. Methods: This cross-sectional study was done among randomly selected school adolescents in Addis Ababa, Ethiopia. Data were collected by an anonymous self administered questionnaire. Risky sexual behavior was assessed by asking question about sexual activity, consistent condom use and faithfulness to a single partner. Logistic regression analysis was done to identify factors related to sexual behavior using the ecological framework. Result: Overall 377(10.6%) of the 723 sexually active students were involved in risky sexual practices. Risky sexual behavior was significantly and very strongly associated with perception of peers' involvement in sexual intercourse [AOR = 11.68 (95% CI: 8.76 - 15.58)]. Conclusion: This study demonstrated that peer pressure is the most important factor associated with risky sexual behavior among school adolescents in Addis Ababa. Interventions aimed at reducing sexual behavior among school adolescents should target adolescents as a group rather than individually.展开更多
Introduction: The problems of adolescents’ sexual behavior are grave and far-reaching. Methods: Review of exiting literature via Google scholar, AJOL, Pubmed, HINARI and other relevant data bases on the common proble...Introduction: The problems of adolescents’ sexual behavior are grave and far-reaching. Methods: Review of exiting literature via Google scholar, AJOL, Pubmed, HINARI and other relevant data bases on the common problems of adolescents’ inappropriate sexual behavior. Result: Adolescent sexual behavior could result in adolescent pregnancy which prevalence varies widely throughout Nigeria perhaps due to differences in culture and development. Abortion, the willful termination of pregnancy is another problem which is often undertaken for pregnancies resulting from incest and sexual abuse. Also common is trans-generational sex which occurs when an adolescent has non-marital sex in the last 12 months with a man who is at least 10 years older than her. Also related to this, is transactional sex found in both committed and casual relationships. It is not always done for survival because in some cultures, sex for favor is carried out for reasons other than subsistence. Furthermore, multiple sexual partners are the engagement in sex with more than one partner over a particular time frame. It may be sequential or concurrent. The high prevalence of these problems in Nigeria raises a question of the possibility of achieving the millennium development goals (MDGs) 4, 5 and 6 specifically targeted at reducing child mortality, improving maternal health and combating HIV/AIDS, malaria and other diseases respectively. Conclusion: Policies and strategies such as family life and HIV/AIDs education (FLHE) curriculum on adolescent reproductive health should be pursued with greater vigor in our secondary schools in addition to establishing HIV counseling centers and vocational training programs for out-of-school adolescents. WHO support and commitment to key action areas for countries and member states will build and strengthen their capacity to improve reproductive and sexual health.展开更多
基金Soft Science Special Project of Gansu Basic Research Plan,No.25JRZA072Youth Project of Philosophy and Social Science Foundation of Gansu Province,No.2024QN015+1 种基金General Project of Philosophy and Social Science Foundation of Gansu Province,No.2024YB049Lanzhou Philosophy and Social Science Planning Project,No.24-B13.
文摘Adolescence is a crucial period marked by significant developmental changes,during which risk-taking behaviors can be both a normative part of development and a potential source of concern.However,prior research has focused predominantly on the adverse aspects of risk-taking(i.e.,negative risk-taking),overlooked the positive counterpart(i.e.,positive risk-taking),and lacked a detailed examination of both.This study aims to elucidate the distinct characteristics and interrelationships of positive and negative risk-taking behaviors among adoles-cents and to identify the key factors that influence these behaviors.Through a comprehensive synthesis of theoretical and empirical literature,we explore the multifaceted nature of risk-taking,highlighting its complex influencing factors,including individual traits,family dynamics,peer influence,school environment,and broader community contexts.By identifying the shared and unique factors contributing to positive and negative risk-taking behaviors,we can enable adolescents to navigate this complex stage of life and design targeted interventions.Future research directions include the application of person-centered approaches,the implementation of longitudinal tracking and the interactive effects of influencing factors,among other aspects.
基金funded by the National Social Science Fund of China(GrantNo.24CTJ019).
文摘Background Adolescents’subjective well-being(SWB)is strongly linked to mental health,academic achievement,social relationships,and quality of life,and is a key predictor of life outcomes in adulthood.Mental health and addictive behaviors are the two main factors influencing SWB.This study aimed to identify key mental health and addictive behavior factors associated with adolescent SWB through machine learning models.Methods The data for this study comes from the Health Behaviour in School-aged Children(HBSC)survey 2017/18.The study data contains health data from 60,450 adolescents aged 10–16 years.The study used the XGBoost machine learning model to analyze the impact of mental health and addictive behaviors on adolescent SWB.Gain was used to analyze the significance of the variables.The direction of action of the variables and the interaction between the variables were analyzed using the SHapley Additive exPlanations(SHAP)method.Results The model in this study has an accuracy of 86.7%and an AUC value of 0.85,showing its good predictive performance.Six key variables were filtered through Gain analysis.Feeling low and health as the two most important factors affecting SWB,with these two variables contributing 51.38%and 19.65%,respectively.Friends and thinking body as major factors influencing SWB in mental health.Smoking lifetime and sweets as major factors influencing SWB in addictive behaviors.The interactions and characteristic dependencies between these variables were further analyzed.The results showed that feeling low,friends,and sweets had a positive effect on SWB,while health and smoking lifetime showed a negative effect.In addition,a moderate thinking body contributes to SWB,whereas being too fat and too thin are both associated with decreased levels of SWB.Conclusion Mental health and addictive behavioral factors such as feeling low,friends,sweets,and smoking lifetime were significant factors influencing SWB.This provides a scientific basis for the development of public health policies and interventions aimed at enhancing adolescent well-being.
文摘Objective:This study aimed to examine the developmental trajectories of internalizing behaviors among adolescents and to identify key personal and environmental factors associated with these developmental patterns over time.Methods:Data were collected from 2242 adolescents(49.6%girls,aged 13.9–18.9 years)in South Korea.Latent class growth analysis was used to identify distinct developmental patterns of internalizing behaviors.Multinomial logistic regression analyses were conducted to examine the associations between these developmental patterns and various factors including gender,self-esteem,abuse and neglect experiences,peer relationships,and media use.Results:The analysis revealed three latent classes of internalizing behavior trajectories among adolescents.The first group,the“mid decreasing group”,comprised 54.5%of the sample(1221 students),indicating a moderate level of internalizing behavior that declined over time.The second group,the“high decreasing group”,included 19.1%of the sample(429 students),characterized by initially high levels of internalizing behavior that decreased.The third group,the“low maintained group”,represented 26.4%of the sample(592 students),indicating consistently low levels of internalizing behavior.Factors such as gender,self-esteem,experiences of abuse and neglect,peer relationships(trust and alienation),smartphone dependency,and time spent watching TV/videos were significantly associated with these latent groups.Conclusion:Three distinct developmental patterns of internalizing behaviors were identified among adolescents:mid-decreasing(54.5%),high-decreasing(19.1%),and low-maintained(26.4%).Gender,self-esteem,abuse experiences,and peer relationships were significant predictors of these developmental patterns.
基金supported by the STI 2030-Major Projects(2021ZD0200500).
文摘Background:Adverse childhood experiences(ACEs)are a significant issue in adolescent health due to their robust correlation with deficits in executive functions(EF)and health risk behaviors(HRBs).This study aimed to examine the association between ACEs and a range of HRBs,including substance use,sexual risk behavior,suicidal ideation,physical inactivity,and violence.Methods:This cross-sectional study used self-administered questionnaire and cluster sampling in seven junior high schools in Samarinda,Indonesia,with a sample size of 534 students.Data analysis using descriptive statistics,the Chi-square test,the independent t-test,ANOVA,binary logistic regression,and mediation analysis with macro-PROCESS.Results:The most common ACEs were community violence(68.0%),physical neglect(52.8%),psychological/emotional abuse(52.6%),physical abuse(50.4%),and peer bullying(45.9%).Adolescents with more than five ACEs showed significantly higher involvement in smoking/vaping(67.9%),suicidal ideation(75.2%),sexual risk behavior(57.7%),bullying(64.3%),and physical fighting(59.7%)(p<0.001).ACEs were significantly correlated with EF deficits(r=0.471,p<0.01)and HRB(r=0.578,p<0.01).Regression analysis confirmed that ACEs predicted EF deficits(β=0.466,p<0.001)and HRB(β=0.469,p<0.001),with EF deficits partially mediating this relationship(β=0.107,95%CI[0.045,0.094]).In addition,two subdomains of EF deficits,self-motivation(β=0.042)and self-regulation of emotion(β=0.032),significantlymediated the relationship between ACEs and HRBs.Conclusion:These findings suggest an important role for EF deficits in linking childhood adversity to engagement in risky behaviors.Addressing ACEs and EF deficits(self-motivation and self-regulation of emotion)through early intervention may be important in reducing long-term health risks among Indonesian adolescents.
基金supported by Health Department of Hubei Province(No.JX1B161).
文摘Objective To explore the endocfinal factors which influence the aggressive behavior of adolescents. Methods The levels of cortisol （CORT）, testosterone （T）, prolactin （PRL）, and growth hormone （GH） in saliva from 20 aggressive students and 20 non-aggressive control students were measured by radioimmunoassay （RIA）. The students were matched for their gender, age, grade, stage of pubertal development, and economic status of their families. Results The salivary T levels were 22.20±14.50 pg/mL and 19.54±12.52 pg/mL in aggressive male and female students, 13.20±6.85 pg/mL and 5.24±3.03 pg/mL in non-aggressive male and female students （P〈0.05）. The male aggressive students had a lower level of CORT in saliva than non-aggressive male students （P〈0.05）. There were no significant differences in the salivary levels of PRL or GH between the aggressive and non-aggressive groups. Correlation analysis revealed a negative relationship in male students between the salivary CORT levels and the aggression factor scores of the child behavior checklist （CBCL）. In addition, the data also showed a positive relationship between the salivary T levels and the aggression factor scores of CBCL in female students. Multiple linear regression analysis showed that the salivary CORT level was an independent predictive factor for aggressive behaviors in adolescent boys. The higher the CORT level, the less aggressive the boys were. Conclusion CORT and T levels may play a certain role in adolescent aggressive behaviors.
文摘In order to identify family factors obviously relevant to aggression, and offer a theoretical foundation for the prevention of aggression, 4010 students from primary and secondary schools in 5 different areas in Hubei province were surveyed. The Child Behavior Checklist ＂ parents＂ form＂ （Chinese version） and the four scales of Family Environment Scale were used. A multiple logistic regression was used to identify risk factors of children＇s and adolescents＂ aggressive behavior. The results showed that maternal education, paternal occupation, family type, parental child-rearing attitude and patterns, students＂ interpersonal relationship were significantly associated with the childreffs and adolescents＂ aggression. The risk factors of aggression were parental child-rearing patterns, peer relationship, teacher-student relationship, and family conflicts.
文摘Background: Adolescent obesity is associated with high cardiovascular and metabolic risk. Western diet and reduced physical activity are strong environmental determinants. The “Health Production” model posits that individuals born with a certain amount of health stock, which depreciates over life, but can be augmented by individual behaviors, including exercise and dieting. Objective: To study the association between health production and obesity in a random sample of 1692 Chilean adolescents (14.8 ± 0.7 years old), and to study the effect of gender and socioeconomic characteristics on health production. Method: We used an indicator that considered the quality of food intake and physical activity, establishing three categories: good (GHP), intermediate (IHP) and poor health producers (PHP). Multivariate analysis was used to study the odds of obesity and good health production. Results: There was 31% of GHP, 32% of IHP and 38% of PHP. Obesity (Adj. OR: 1.59;95%CI: 1.04 - 2.42) and abdominal obesity (Adj. OR: 2.24;95%CI: 1.35 - 3.40) were significantly higher in the PHP group, compared to the GHP and IHP group. Health production was significantly associated with socioeconomic factors and gender. Female sex and coming from a less wealthy household significantly reduced the odds of good health production. Conclusions: Poor health production in adolescence, as defined by food intake and physical activity, depreciates individuals’ “health stock”, increasing the risk of obesity. In our sample, health production was strongly associated with socio-economic factors and gender.
基金Supported by National Key R&D Program of China,No.2017YFC1309900Beijing Municipal Science&Technology Commission,No.Z171100001017088 and No.Z161100000116098.
文摘BACKGROUND Health-related risky behaviors generally refer to behaviors that have a negative impact on health and quality of life.Health-related risky behaviors in adolescents with high-functioning autism(HFA)have not been well understood so far.Adolescents with HFA may have more health-related risky behaviors than neurotypical adolescents.AIM To investigate health-related risky behaviors and their risk factors with HFA.METHODS This is an observational study.Our study enrolled 110 adolescents aged 12-19-years-old meeting Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders 4th edition criteria for HFA.They were recruited from Peking University Sixth Hospital.There were also 110 age,sex and nationality matched controls enrolled who came from a public school in Beijing,China.Both groups completed the Adolescents Health-related Risky Behavior Inventory.Nonparametric tests were carried out for comparison of the Adolescents Health-related Risky Behavior Inventory scores between the two groups.Expression recognition,the Inventory of Subjective Life Quality for Child and Adolescent,Chinese Wechsler Intelligence Scale for Children,Wechsler Intelligence Scale for Adult-Chinese Revised,Theory of Mind test and Autism Spectrum Screening Questionnaire were assessed in the autism group to explore factors associated with health-related risky behaviors.Multivariate regression analysis was conducted to explore the risk factors of health-related risky behaviors in the HFA group.RESULTS The results showed that the total score of the Adolescents Health-related Risky Behavior Inventory and scores of“aggression and violence,”“suicide and selfinjury,”“health compromising behavior”and“unprotected sex”subscales in the HFA group were significantly higher than those in the control group(Z range-4.197 to-2.213,P<0.05).Among the associated factors,poor emotional experience(B=-0.268,P<0.001),depression(B=-0.321,P<0.001),low score of intelligence(B=-0.032,P=0.042),low score of Theory of Mind test(B=-1.321,P=0.003)and poor adaptation to school life(B=-0.152,P=0.006)were risk factors.These risky behaviors may promote the occurrence of health-related risky behaviors in adolescents with HFA.CONCLUSION This study showed that adolescents with HFA were more likely to be involved in health-related risky behaviors.Different health-related risky behaviors have different reasons.
基金This study has been supported by grants from the National Natural Science Foundation of China[Grant number 81874268].
文摘ObjectiveTo present an approach to phenotyping ACEs and explore the association between ACEs and adolescent health risky behaviors based on the social context of China.Methods Totally,5,726 adolescents aged 12-18 years were investigated about their ACEs in the family,peer,school,and personal domains and the occurrence of six types of risky health behaviors(i.e.,smoking,drinking,sexual intercourse,self-harm,and suicidal ideation and attempts).Latent class analysis(LCA)was used to explore the ACE patterns.Results Six latent classes of ACEs were identified,including low adversity,school adversity,school adversity and peer victimization,peer victimization,maltreatment and peer victimization,and high adversity,and associated with risky health behaviors in adolescents.Being physically punished by a teacher,experiencing sexual abuse,and experiencing family trauma most strongly differentiated from the six AcE classes and were correlated with an increased risk for risky adolescent health behaviors.ConclusionThis study supports a positive association between ACEs and risky adolescent health behaviors.Peer victimization,school adversity and associated contexts need to be considered in future ACEstudies.
文摘Objective:This study aimed to examine the association between parent-child relationships and physically aggressive behavior among adolescents.Methods:This is a cross-sectional study that uses secondary data from the 2015 Indonesia Global School-Based Health Survey(IGSHS).Health surveys were conducted in 75 schools representing three regions(Sumatra,Java-Bali;Outer Sumatra;and Java-Bali)in 26 provinces and 68 districts/cities in Indonesia(N=10,139 students).Students who participated were aged 12-19 years,were enrolled in public schools in the junior and high school levels.Results:It has been seen that for most middle-aged adolescents(58.7%),their parents(25%-29%)pay less attention to academic assignments(homework),problems,and use of free time.The most significant factors that influence adolescents to commit violence are smoking and consuming alcohol.Adolescents who smoke are twice as likely to commit physical violence compared with adolescents who do not smoke(OR=2.005;95%CI=1.7062-2.396).Meanwhile,adolescents who consume alcohol are 1.8 times more likely to commit physical violence compared with adolescents who do not consume alcohol(OR=1.807;95%CI=1.421-2.298).Conclusions:Through educational activities and consultations,this study’s findings are valuable for establishing parenting programs among those concerned about their children’s aggressive behavior.Meanwhile,counseling programs can be started in schools by conducting self-detection of negative adolescent behavior,such as screening for smoking,alcohol consumption,sleep issues,and attempted suicide.
文摘Parenting skill is one of the crucial needs that parents must have in caring adolescents’ sexual health risk behavior. Present study aims to determine predictors of parenting skills in preventing adolescents’ sexual health risk behavior. A cross sectional study was conducted among adolescents’ parents who attended government health clinics in a semi-urban district, West Malaysia. Data were collected by systematic random sampling using validated questionnaire from eight government health clinics based on routine daily out-patient services. There were 386 respondents participated with 98.9% of response rate. Parental skill is categorized as appropriate or inappropriate based on Trans-Theoretical Model (TTM) staging. Eighteen independent variables were used: parental socioeconomic status, adolescent characteristic, parenting style, parent-adolescent communication, parental stress, perception on adolescent sexual risk, comfortable in discussing sexual issues, knowledge in sexual reproductive health (SRH) and knowledge in HIV/AIDS. Assessment of parenting skills using the TTM stage showed 139 respondents (36%) had inappropriate parenting skills, in which they were in pre contemplation, contemplation or preparedness stages, while 247 respondents (64%) showed appropriate parenting skills when they were in action and maintenance stages of TTM. Older parent, late adolescent, low parental education level, extended family living arrangement, comfortable in discussing sexual issues, good parent-adolescent communication and higher knowledge in HIV/AIDS were found significant in bivariate analysis. Multivariate logistic regression analysis identified older parent (AOR = 1.927, 95% CI = 1.889 - 1.966, p < 0.001), lower parental education (AOR = 2.394, 95% CI = 1.348 - 4.254, p = 0.003), comfortable in discussing sexual issues (AOR = 3.810, 95% CI = 1.622 - 8.948, p = 0.002), good parent-adolescent communication (AOR = 4.741, 95% CI = 2.478 - 9.071, p ≤ 0.001) and having higher knowledge on HIV/AIDS (AOR = 2.804, 95% CI = 1.528 - 5.147, p = 0.001) as significant predictors for appropriate parenting skills in preventing adolescent sexual health risk behavior. In conclusion, more than one third of parents were still not ready in preventing adolescent sexual risk behavior. Targeting the young parents and those having difficulty in communicating sexual issues with theirs adolescents should be emphasized in early intervention program for parents. Self-assessment using TTM stage questionnaire will help parents to identify their parenting skills in preventing adolescent sexual health risk behavior.
基金supported by the Ministry of Research,Technology,and Higher Education(Kementerian Riset,Teknologi,dan Pendidikan Tinggi/KEMENRISTEK-DIKTI)at the expense of Hibah Bersaing Research 2016
文摘Objective： This article aimed to evaluate the effects of an educational intervention programme on improving peer educator （PE） knowledge in issues around growth and development and its risk behavior problems of adolescents in Indonesia. Methods： The study was conducted in 31 of PEs to evaluate their knowledge in adolescents. The PEs received health education and were assessed by individual work during the structured three-week programme. Data were collected before and after the training programme as pre- and post-tests. Results： The PE demonstrated significant improvements in their knowledge after attending the three-week structured training programme. The post-test scores had significant effects on the dimensions of PE knowledge scores. The PE become knowledgeable to maintain and monitor adolescents health issues around growth and development and its risk behavior problems of adolescents. Conclusions： The PE become knowledgeable to respond to the adolescent problems and readiness to become PE during puberty.
文摘The current study examined the prevalence and clustering of 5 health-risk behaviors among adolescents in Hawaii, including physical inactivity, low fruit and vegetable consumption, junk food consumption, excessive television time, and inadequate sleep. High school students were recruited from 5 classrooms in Oahu Hawaii. Data were collected in the spring semester of 2011. Proportions were used to describe the prevalence of single and multiple health risk behaviors. Significant health behavior clusters were revealed using an observed-to-expected (O/E) ratio method. Participating adolescents (n = 114) were 11th and 12th grade students with a mean age of 16.28 (SD = 0.62). Participants were predominantly female (75%) and Filipino-American (68%). Seventy-seven percent of adolescents were physically inactive, 90% watched excessive TV, 66% consumed inadequate fruits and vegetables, 94% reported inadequate levels of sleep, and 80% consumed excessive junk food. Overall, 94% reported at least 3 risk factors, 73% reported at least 4 risk factors, and 37% reported all 5 risk factors. No significant clusters were found. Conclusion: Health-risk behaviors cluster and occur more often than expected among adolescents living in Hawaii. Non-significant clustering may be due to insufficient variability within the sample data;future examinations of this highly understudied population are necessary.
文摘Purpose: This study analyzed treatment effects of cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT) group counseling intervention on HIV transmission risk behavior, depression, anxiety, and alcohol use in HIV perinatally infected adolescents attending an HIV clinical care center in Uganda, Africa. Method: A total of 186 adolescents were randomly assigned to an experimental or control arm and assigned into groups of 11 - 16 adolescents. The experimental groups received an 80-minute CBT based weekly intervention for 8 consecutive weeks, while the control groups received only standard group care. Data from self report assessments were analyzed at pre- and post-test using repeated measures of analysis of variance. The participants, analyzed by variable, included 115 for sexual behavior, 106 for depression, 88 for anxiety, and 115 for alcohol use. Results: The results from the study show a large significant difference (p = 0.006) between the experimental and control groups on the anxiety variable. There were no significant differences between the experimental and control groups on the variables of sexual behavior (p = 0.876), depression (p = 0.700), and alcohol use (p = 0.815). There was an indication of reduced levels of HIV sexual transmission risk behavior, depression, and alcohol use levels in the participants in both the experimental and control groups. Conclusions: Risky sexual behavior places HIV perinatally infected adolescents at risk of re-infection, sexually transmitted diseases, and transmitting HIV to their sexual partners. CBT group counseling intervention equipped the participating adolescents with appropriate life skills to deal with psychological distress and anxiety often seen in their lives and may be useful in routine medical care to reduce transmission risks and improve wellness and call for its incorporation into HIV preventive programs and counselor education.
文摘Context: With the view to reorient both STI/HIV/AIDS prevention and adolescents pregnancies, this research study aims at evaluating cognitive and behavioral acquisitions, as well as the process of interactive sex education participatory approach among adolescents in Kinshasa high schools. Methods: Based on a “pre and post” virtually experimental design, two crosswise surveys were conducted in Kinshasa, for six months in 2011-2012 on 484 high school students (pre-survey) and on 441 high school students (post-survey), whose age range from 14 - 19 years including both sexes. Two participatory educational talks (PET) “A” and “B”, covered weekly in two different schools, were compared to a control group school. The PET “A” consisted of interactive interpersonal communication sessions given by an external expert as a substitute for the life education course in one school. The PET “B” carried out in another school, included more educational talk sessions, led by the external expert and supplemented by a close follow-up of teenagers divided into small groups of 10 participants. The subjects’ assessment was based on their knowledge, attitudes and practices relating to STI/HIV/AIDS dual prevention as well as to unwanted pregnancies. Results: The subjects involved in the PET “B” displayed a better/higher performance based on their knowledge, attitudes and practices related to STI/HIV/AIDS dual prevention and unwanted pregnancies. Broadly speaking, knowledge has been improved 6 times with the PET “B” (OR = 6, 10, IC 95%) (3.24 - 11.9), and 3 times with the PET “A” (OR = 3, 45, IC 95%) (1.79 - 6.81), compared to control school. Similarly, findings on subjects’ attitudes show an improvement rated 12 times with the PET”B” (OR = 11, 99, IC 95%) (5.67 - 27.38) and 5 times for the PET “A” (OR = 5.51, IC 95%) (2.54 - 12.87). As far as the subjects’ practices are concerned, an improvement of 6 more times of protected sexual intercourses with the PET “B” compared with the control school group (OR = 6, 52, IC 95%) (3.60 - 12.0). The process assessment records a spontaneous involvement of schools enhanced by the positive contribution of Life Education and Biology teachers;add a massive participation of adolescents who requested permanent PET program. Conclusion: The results of this study suggest that school sexual education programs can be improved to increase the quality of apprenticeship. The use of interactive methods and the consideration of the adolescents’ specific needs that take into account the gender approach may bring about beneficial advantages on both educational outcomes and reproductive health of adolescents.
文摘In 2010, the World Health Organization supported the Lebanese Ministry of Education and Higher Education to establish a network of 10 Health Promoting Schools (HPS). This study was undertaken to address the extent to which the HPS model was able to produce changes in the risk behaviors of adolescents (Smoking, Drinking, and Drug Use) and prepare them to respond to evolving health challenges. A cross-sectional survey was carried out during 2011-2012 and compared Grade 6 - 9 students in HPS, and 10 other public and private schools. The Youth Risk Behavior Survey [1], and Carbon Monoxide measurements in adolescent breaths were used for data collection. Findings revealed that the current School Health Program failed to address issues of concern to adolescents with no significant differences in risk behaviors: smoking, alcohol and drug use. The HPS network needs reassessment to upgrade the outcomes of health education curricula. Expected learning outcomes and healthy practices must be designed to match students’ age, grade level, and developmental milestones.
文摘This study investigated the roles of adolescent popularity and likeability in eight domains of risk-taking in Australian grade 9 students (53% girls). The eight domains included previously examined areas of aggressive behaviours, alcohol use, and sexual intercourse, and areas where there is scarce information, including antisocial activities, unprotected intercourse, body image-related risk-taking, unsafe road practices, and stranger-related risk-taking. The results indicated a clear association between popularity and higher risk-taking in five of the eight domains. This is contrasted with likeability, which was not directly related to risk-taking aside from one two-way interaction with gender for sexual intercourse. The findings demonstrate the importance of including a broader range of risk-taking activities when considering popularity, particularly stranger-related risk-taking.
文摘Introduction: The substantial changes that occur in adolescence may lead to sexual behaviors that adversely affect their health. We have described sexual patterns in adolescents in various neighborhoods of Yaounde in order to underscore the sexual challenges that they face. Methods: We carried out a cross-sectional descriptive study in District number V of Yaounde from August 1st to 31st 2018. To characterize their sexual lives, we surveyed 1800 adolescents between 10 and 19, and analyzed the data using SPSS version 25.0. Results: In our study, 1023 (56.8%) adolescents were female, and 777 (43.2%) were male. Most of the adolescents were between ages 18 and 19 years (25.4%), unmarried (93.1%), had a secondary level of education (81.9%) and lived with their families (87.3%). One-third of the adolescents (30.7%) were sexually active and 41.1% had multiple sexual partners. The average age of coitarche was 15.1 years. Among the females, 17.1% reported one prior pregnancy and 30.8% had one abortion. Most of the sexual encounters were heterosexual (82.6%) and 30.2% regularly used male condoms. 66.0% and 47.7% obtained information about sexuality primarily from social media and mass media, respectively. Conclusion: Sexual encounters in adolescents of District V of Yaounde were premature, mostly heterosexual and often unprotected. The consequences were an increased incidence of early pregnancies and abortions.
文摘Background: Understanding ecological factors that influence risky sexual behavior of adolescents is vital in designing and implementing sexual risk reduction interventions in specific contexts. Interventions undertaken without understanding the critical factors may not produce the desired results. Objective: The objective of this study was to identify the factors associated with adolescent risky sexual behavior among school adolescents in Addis Ababa, Ethiopia. Methods: This cross-sectional study was done among randomly selected school adolescents in Addis Ababa, Ethiopia. Data were collected by an anonymous self administered questionnaire. Risky sexual behavior was assessed by asking question about sexual activity, consistent condom use and faithfulness to a single partner. Logistic regression analysis was done to identify factors related to sexual behavior using the ecological framework. Result: Overall 377(10.6%) of the 723 sexually active students were involved in risky sexual practices. Risky sexual behavior was significantly and very strongly associated with perception of peers' involvement in sexual intercourse [AOR = 11.68 (95% CI: 8.76 - 15.58)]. Conclusion: This study demonstrated that peer pressure is the most important factor associated with risky sexual behavior among school adolescents in Addis Ababa. Interventions aimed at reducing sexual behavior among school adolescents should target adolescents as a group rather than individually.
文摘Introduction: The problems of adolescents’ sexual behavior are grave and far-reaching. Methods: Review of exiting literature via Google scholar, AJOL, Pubmed, HINARI and other relevant data bases on the common problems of adolescents’ inappropriate sexual behavior. Result: Adolescent sexual behavior could result in adolescent pregnancy which prevalence varies widely throughout Nigeria perhaps due to differences in culture and development. Abortion, the willful termination of pregnancy is another problem which is often undertaken for pregnancies resulting from incest and sexual abuse. Also common is trans-generational sex which occurs when an adolescent has non-marital sex in the last 12 months with a man who is at least 10 years older than her. Also related to this, is transactional sex found in both committed and casual relationships. It is not always done for survival because in some cultures, sex for favor is carried out for reasons other than subsistence. Furthermore, multiple sexual partners are the engagement in sex with more than one partner over a particular time frame. It may be sequential or concurrent. The high prevalence of these problems in Nigeria raises a question of the possibility of achieving the millennium development goals (MDGs) 4, 5 and 6 specifically targeted at reducing child mortality, improving maternal health and combating HIV/AIDS, malaria and other diseases respectively. Conclusion: Policies and strategies such as family life and HIV/AIDs education (FLHE) curriculum on adolescent reproductive health should be pursued with greater vigor in our secondary schools in addition to establishing HIV counseling centers and vocational training programs for out-of-school adolescents. WHO support and commitment to key action areas for countries and member states will build and strengthen their capacity to improve reproductive and sexual health.
