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Juvenile Sexual Behaviors

Children and teens who engage in sexual behavior are at greater risk for emotional problems, pregnancy, dating violence, and sexually transmitted diseases (STDs). RAND studies have examined such topics as prevention and intervention strategies, virginity pledges, the influence of the media on adolescent sexual behavior, and the link between romantic teen relationships and later adult marriages.

Research conducted by: RAND Health

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Influences on Adolescent Sexual Behavior

RAND Health has worked on multiple studies identifying the predictors and consequences of adolescent sexual intercourse. The most recent work, by Dr. Anita Chandra, is the first study to demonstrate a link between exposure to sexual content on television and the experience of a pregnancy before the age of 20.

Research Briefs (5)

A Worksite Parenting Program That Works — Mar 23, 2011

Summarizes research on Talking Parents, Healthy Teens, a worksite-based parenting program designed by RAND and University of California at Los Angeles researchers that improves communication between parents and their adolescents on sexual health.

Are Adolescents Talking with Their Parents About Sex Before Becoming Sexually Active? — Mar 11, 2010

Examines parent-child discussions of sexual behavior. Finds consistency in the timing and content of such discussions; however, many parents and children do not discuss key topics, such as birth control, before adolescents become sexually active.

Does Watching Sex on Television Influence Teens’ Sexual Activity? — Oct 20, 2009

Two recent studies led by RAND Health behavioral scientist Rebecca Collins examined the impact of TV sex on teenagers’ sexual beliefs and activities.

Research Brief

Exposure to Sex on TV May Increase the Chance of Teen Pregnancy — Nov 3, 2008

Offers some practical implications based on the first study to demonstrate a link between exposure to sexual content on TV and subsequently becoming pregnant or being responsible for a pregnancy before the age of 20.