Early Non-Coital Sexual and Romantic Behaviors in Latine Adolescents: Differences by Latine Origin

Abstract

This secondary data analysis examined how adolescent early non-coital sexual and romantic behaviors and intentions vary by U.S. Latine origin (e.g., Cuban-, Dominican-, Mexican-, Puerto Rican-, Central and South American, and Other-origin), and explored whether these differences remained when accounting for demographic and cultural factors (e.g., familism). We used data from the baseline and Year 3 follow-ups of the Adolescent Brain Cognitive Development (ABCD) study. Latine early adolescents (N = 2411; Mage = 11.97, SD = .67) reported on their romantic intentions (40%), romantic behaviors or whether they wanted or have had a boyfriend/girlfriend (27%), and early sexual behaviors (i.e., kissing 10% and touching 3%). When controlling for demographic and cultural factors, gender and race explained some differences. Some remain. For instance, Mexican-origin adolescents reported the lowest prevalence of early romantic behaviors. Findings may help understand national origin differences in romantic and sexual behaviors and tailor prevention programs among these Latine subgroups.

Keywords

Hispanic/Latino/Latina sexuality/sexual behaviour (incl. pregnancy)minority (ethnic/racial)sexual development

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