Religiosity and Sexual Risk Behaviors Among Latina Adolescents: Trends from 1995 to 2008

• DOI: 10.1089/jwh.2010.1949
• Publication Date: 2011-04-27T18:09:11Z
• Authors: Lisa M. Edwards; Kristin Haglund; Richard J. Fehring; Jessica Pruszynski
• Keywords: Attendance

Purpose: The purpose of this study was to determine trends in the influence religiosity on sexual activity Latina adolescents United States from 1995 2008 and if differences existed between Mexican American other groups. Methods: sample comprised subset unmarried, 15–21-year-old (mean 17 years) female respondents (n=267), 2002 (n=306), 2006–2008 (n=400) National Survey Family Growth (NSFG) datasets. Associations (importance religion service attendance) history ever having sex, number sex partners, age debut were investigated. Results: Less than one half Latinas (44%) reported that very important them, whereas 2002, 50% it important. Only did who viewed as have a significantly lower level initiation. In 2006–2008, held had fewer partners. all three cohorts, higher religious importance group virgin survival rates. Across approximately third frequent attendance. attenders less likely older at debut. rate virgins for origin compared non-Mexican but almost same 2006–2008. Conclusions: Religiosity protective association with among adolescents. has diminished 2008, however, attendance remained stable. more apparent origin, greater also by