Patterns of sexual behaviors among unmarried adolescents and youth in three Asian cities

Peng Zhang, Ersheng Gao, Qiao Sun, Chaohua Lou, Elaine Y.L. Leung, Yan Cheng, Laurie S. Zabin

Research output: Contribution to journalArticlepeer-review

1 Scopus citations

Abstract

We examined patterns of sexual behaviors of unmarried adolescents and youth (UAY) in three Asian cities (Shanghai, Taipei, and Hanoi) and identified factors related to the timing of initial sexual experience. From analysis of a sample of 16 554 UAY aged 15-24 years recruited from Shanghai, Taipei, and Hanoi plus data collected from face-to-face interviews complemented by computer-assisted self-interviews for intimate questions, we learned: UAY in Shanghai, Taipei, and Hanoi have different sexual behaviors. Affluent economic status increases the likelihood of early initial sexual experiences. Higher educational attainment may delay initial intercourse. Compared with Shanghai UAY, study participants from Taipei and Hanoi were 3.64 times and 0.33 times as likely to participate intercourse. These data can provide a basis for developing effective government policies and social interventions.

Original languageEnglish (US)
Pages (from-to)80-97
Number of pages18
JournalJournal of public health policy
Volume37
Issue number1
DOIs
StatePublished - Feb 1 2016

Keywords

  • Hanoi
  • Shanghai
  • Taipei
  • adolescents
  • sexual behaviors

ASJC Scopus subject areas

  • Health Policy
  • Public Health, Environmental and Occupational Health

Fingerprint

Dive into the research topics of 'Patterns of sexual behaviors among unmarried adolescents and youth in three Asian cities'. Together they form a unique fingerprint.

Cite this