UC Berkeley

Purpose

Little is known about fatherhood in middle adolescence. To better understand their sexual health needs, we describe relationship characteristics, perception of masculinity, and associated sexually transmitted infection (STI) risk behaviors in a community-based sample of urban middle adolescent boys who have fathered a child or been involved with a pregnancy.

Methods

We used venue-based sampling to recruit 339 boys (aged 14-17 years) in neighborhoods with high STI prevalence. We administered a brief survey on sexual relationship and pregnancy history, STI risk, juvenile justice involvement, and masculinity.

Results

Fifteen percent had either fathered a child or been involved with a pregnancy. In multivariate analysis, controlling for age and ethnicity, adolescent fathers were more likely to be involved with juvenile justice and engage in STI risk behaviors. These included condom nonuse and partner checking a cell phone. Although of borderline significance, older partners, past STI testing, and drug or alcohol use at last sex improved model fit.

Conclusion

Adolescent fathers have distinct relational and sexual health needs. Their specific needs should be targeted by prevention programs.