Self-Esteem and Adolescent Sexual Behavior Among Students at an Elite Bolivian School

摘要

The purpose of the study was to examine the relationship between self- esteem and the sexual behavior and intended sexual behavior of adolescents in Bolivia. Students (n= 189) completed a questionnaire designed to elicit informationregarding self-esteem, sexual behavior and intended sexual behavior. Results indicated higher home self-esteem for those evidencing greater sexual conservativeness relative to virgin status and sexual situation. Peer self-esteem was higher for those intending to have sexual intercourse before marriage. School self-esteem was higher for those reporting participation in sexual intercourse in the last month. Significant variable x gender x grade interactions were noted for both school and home self-esteem relative to intent to have intercourse before marriage. Significant variable x gender, variable x grade, and variable x gender x grade interactions were noted for home self-esteem and sexual situation. Results highlight the role of the home, school, and peer group in influencing adolescent sexual behavior.