| Article ID | Journal | Published Year | Pages | File Type |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 3958477 | Journal of Pediatric and Adolescent Gynecology | 2014 | 8 Pages |
Study ObjectiveTo assess initiation of sexual activity and contraception methods used among Greek adolescents. To determine the association of adolescents' emotional and behavioral status with their sexual activity.DesignA descriptive cross-sectional survey was conducted.Setting, ParticipantsThe population (N = 1074, age 14-16) consisted of a random sample, stratified according to locality and population density, of 20 public junior high and high schools located in the urban district of Athens, Greece.InterventionsAnonymous self-reported questionnaires were used to assess sexual activity choices and contraception methods. The Youth Self-Report questionnaire was used to evaluate the psychosocial competencies and difficulties of Greek adolescents.MeasuresAnalyses included frequencies with chi-square tests and multivariate logistic regression analysis.Main OutcomeFactors that may influence sexual engagement of Greek adolescents were assessed.ResultsOf the adolescents who completed the questionnaire 21.8% reported having experienced sexual intercourse. The male/female ratio was 3/1 (P < .001) and the mean age of sexual debut was 14.5 ± 0.9 years. Condoms were the most preferred contraceptive method (79.9%), followed by withdrawal (38.9%). Emergency contraception was used by 9.6% of participants. Adolescents with separated, divorced or with a deceased parent, and non-Greek nationality have higher possibility of being sexually active. Adolescents who reported sexual intercourse had significantly higher score of thought problems (β = 1.07, SE = 0.35, P = .002), attention difficulties (β = 0.67, SE = 0.29, P = .022), delinquent behavior problems (β = 2.37, SE = 0.34, P < .001), aggressive behavior (β = 1.97, SE = 0.48, P < .001), and externalizing problems (β = 4.18, SE = 0.78, P < .001).ConclusionsEngagement in sexual activities was significantly associated with psychosocial difficulties among adolescents living in Greece.
