Factors associated with sexual debut and depression among rural Jamaican adolescents

BACKGROUND: Factors associated with sexual activity among adolescents in Jamaica has not been well studied.

OBJECTIVE: The objective of this study was to identify factors associated with sexual debut and depression among rural Jamaican adolescents.

METHODS: We analyzed data on 748 adolescents. Multivariate logistic regression was used to predict factors associated with sexual experience, early sexual debut, and depressive symptoms.

RESULTS: For girls, sexual experience was associated with older age, spending time with boyfriends, and lack of parental monitoring. Living with both biological parents was protective (OR=0.45; 95% CI = 0.30-0.67). For boys being older at time of survey (OR=1.47; 95% CI = 1.07-2.02) and lack of parental monitoring (OR=1.19; 95% CI = 1.01-1.39) were significant predictors. Early sexual debut for girls was influenced by type of partner at first intercourse (OR=11.95; 95% CI = 2.39-59.69) and liberal attitude towards negative sexual outcomes (OR=1.83; 95% CI = 1.21-2.77). Boys, on the other hand, were mostly influenced by liberal attitude towards negative sexual outcomes. Being older at time of survey was protective for both genders. Depressive symptom was associated with being sexually experienced (OR=1.59; 95% CI = 1.00-2.52) and lack of maternal support (OR=4.06; 95% CI = 2.61-6.32).

CONCLUSION: Education programs that will delay initiation of sexual activity need to start early before adolescents become sexually active. As most homes are female-headed, establishing support systems for the mother to take care of their adolescent children may decrease the odds of depressive symptoms.