Heterosexual intercourse, use of the condom and intentional risky behaviour in 11th and 12th grade students

Abstract

This study describes teenage self-reported heterosexual behaviour and, specifically, their experience of full intercourse, the number of sexual partners and their use of condoms. It also evaluates their intended behaviour when faced with possible sexual intercourse without protection, depending whether the partner is just a casual or it is a recent steady relationship. Furthermore, it analyses the existence of significant differences between these variables according to gender and to the number of sexual partners. The sample consists of 373 16 to 19 year old “Bachillerato” students (11th and 12th grades). The findings show that a high number or sexually active teenagers report risky sexual behaviour. No gender differences are found in relation to variables such as having experienced full sexual intercourse, the number of sexual partners or the use of condoms. The amount of risky intentional behaviour is noticed to be higher with recent steady relationships than with casual partners, and also among males rather than among females. Having had previous sexual experience with more than one partner is related to a riskier intended behaviour. The findings suggest the need to incorporate modifications in the prevention programmes addressed to teenagers.