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International Journal of Public Health

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Open Access 01-11-2020 | Original article

Psychosocial determinants of sexual norms and their impact on sexual debut in Polish adolescents

Authors: Zbigniew Izdebski, Krzysztof Wąż, Anna Kowalewska, Joanna Mazur

Published in: International Journal of Public Health | Issue 8/2020

Abstract

Objectives

In an attempt to describe composite scales relating to sexual norms, we present their structure, psychosocial determinants, and the association with adolescent sexual initiation.

Methods

A representative sample of Polish students was surveyed in 2015 (n = 1024, mean age 17.8 ± 0.31). Three scales of sexual norms were identified using principal component analysis. Logistic regression and path models were applied.

Results

The scales concerning stereotype gender norms, as well as restrictive and permissive sexual norms, were developed. Restrictive norms lead to later sexual initiation and were more frequent in combination with love for the first partner. The variability of all the indices was significantly correlated with the peer environment. A number of direct and indirect paths were found among the above indices, family relationships (support, communication), and socio-emotional strengths, such as the meaning of life, coherence, and self-esteem.

Conclusions

The norms of sexual morality should be included in the analysis of the determinants of adolescent sexual behaviours along with an investigation of complex causal models. The results may contribute to improvement in sexual health promotion.

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Title: Psychosocial determinants of sexual norms and their impact on sexual debut in Polish adolescents
Authors: Zbigniew Izdebski
Krzysztof Wąż
Anna Kowalewska
Joanna Mazur
Publication date: 01-11-2020
Publisher: Springer International Publishing
Published in: International Journal of Public Health / Issue 8/2020
Print ISSN: 1661-8556
Electronic ISSN: 1661-8564
DOI: https://doi.org/10.1007/s00038-020-01470-8

Keynote webinar | Spotlight on medication adherence

Springer Medicine

Psychosocial determinants of sexual norms and their impact on sexual debut in Polish adolescents

Abstract

Objectives

Methods

Results

Conclusions

Keynote webinar | Spotlight on medication adherence

Springer Medicine

Abstract

Objectives

Methods

Results

Conclusions

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