Parenting Practices and Adolescent Sexuality

Adolescent sexual behavior is at the forefront of social science research because it is central to a number of social and medical issues; it remains a major public concern. Underlying factors that influence adolescent sexual behavior are investigated within a sociological framework. Aspects of sexuality are explored through the application of self-control theory which posits that parents are responsible for development of self-control in their children, and that the level of self-control determines the propensity to engage in risk-related behavior. It is hypothesized that adolescent perceptions of parental warmth and control influence adolescent level of self-control; that level of self-control influences engagement in risk-taking behavior; and that risk-taking behavior influences whether or not adolescents feel they are at risk for acquiring STDs. Using data from the National Longitudinal Study of Adolescent Health, this study employs structural equation modeling using LISREL. Results showed adolescent level of self-control influences risk-taking behavior, and that engagement in risk-taking behavior does influence adolescent perception of risk for acquiring STDs. The findings are of great value for primary and secondary educators, public officials and policy makers, guidance counselors, parents or other concerned family members, and even for adolescents.