Kathleen M O'Rourke, PhD, MPH¹, Mary Roddy, MPH PhD¹, and Janice Key². (1) Biometry and Epidemiology, Medical University of South Carolina, 135 Cannon St, Suite 302K, PO Box 250835, Charleston, SC 29425, 843-876-1118, orourkek@musc.edu, (2) Pediatrics, Medical University of South Carolina, 135 Rutledge, Suite 385B, PO Box 250561, Charleston, SC 29425

Purpose: Initiation of sexual activity often occurs in middle school students. This cross-sectional study examined knowledge, attitudinal, and behavioral risk factors associated with sexual activity among predominately minority 7th grade students. Methods: Data were collected by written survey, with questions read aloud to students. Results: 239 students (83% of total student body) completed the survey (55% female, 73% African American, median age group 13-14). Overall, students were ill-informed about the reproductive system. Less than 20% knew the time frame for female fertility and functions of the ovaries and testes. Sexual attitudes differed by gender. Girls were more likely than boys to believe that abstinence is a good choice (p=0.01) and they could resist sexual pressure (p=0.003). Students who participated in school/church clubs (p=0.09), but not sports (p=0.54) were less likely to have had sex. A total of 62 (26%) subjects had had sex, 37% of the boys and 19% of the girls (p=0.002). More than half of those sexually active (52%) had first intercourse at 11 years or younger and 63% have had multiple partners. Birth control, primarily condoms, was used by 76% of sexually active subjects. Conclusions: A significant number of middle school students have already initiated sexual activity. Interventions need to be developed to meet the needs of these younger adolescents with a focus on addressing knowledge deficits, enhancing attitudes and skills, and including protective organized activities.

Learning Objectives:

• Learning Objectives. At the conclusion of the session, the attendee will be able to
• 1. Identify knowledge, attitudes, and sexual behaviors among middle school youth.
• 2. Explore possible program interventions to prevent risky sexual behaviors among younger adolescents.

Keywords: Adolescents, Sexual Risk Behavior

Presenting author's disclosure statement:
I do not have any significant financial interest/arrangement or affiliation with any organization/institution whose products or services are being discussed in this session.