Sexual Attitudes and Behavior Among Young Adolescents in Jamaica

Abstract

This study describes sexual attitudes and behaviors among adolescents from low-income families attending poor quality schools in Jamaica. Data were obtained from the Jamaican Adolescent Study among 945 male and female adolescents 11-14 years old in 1995 who attended 5 Grade 7 Project schools. Data were also obtained from focus groups among 64 male and female students. Under 10% were informed about reproduction. Boys knew more than girls. Knowledge of methods was incomplete. Students generally disapproved of early sex. Boys had mixed approval of early sex. Both sexes thought contraception should be used. 64% of boys and 6% of girls reported sexual experience. The mean reported age of first sex was 11.3 years for girls and 9.4 for boys. Focus groups revealed a disparity between actual sex behavior and disapproval of early first sex. Sex experience was motivated by curiosity love and other notions of dos and donts related to having a boyfriend. Boys related having early sex with physical pleasure elevated status among peers and attainment of manhood. Girls were not likely to report sex behavior to parents. Fewer than 50% used contraceptives at first sex. Students associated family planning with promiscuity. Most did not desire early parenthood. Girls pointed out societal disapproval of early sex and pregnancy. Few mentioned marriage preceding childbearing. Findings support early introduction of family life education.