Go Back Research Article July, 2011

Religiosity and Sexual Involvement Within Adolescent Romantic Couples

Author James Dennis Fortenberry Author Gregory D. Zimet Author Matthew C. Aalsma Author Faouzi Azzouz

Abstract

The impact of religiosity in adolescent romantic partnerships on sexual behavior was assessed. Data were obtained from the National Longitudinal Study of Adolescent Health reciprocated couples database using religious- and relationship-oriented variables to predict sexual involvement in 374 couples (748 participants). We found that individual- and couple-based religiosity impacted sexual behavior. These findings provide evidence for dyad religiosity as a component involved in the expression of sexual behavior in romantic relationships. The current results highlight the importance of incorporating a broad social perspective in order to understand the expression of adolescent sexual behavior.

Keywords

sexual behavior romantic couples religion adolescence religiosity adolescent romantic relationships romantic partnerships national longitudinal study adolescent health relationship dynamics couple-based religiosity sexual involvement social perspective religious influence youth relationships dyadic religiosity behavioral predictors adolescent sexuality faith and relationships partner influence religious beliefs social factors relationship-oriented variables youth development adolescent psychology sexual decision-making romantic attachment religious values
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Volume 52
Issue 3
Pages 804–816
DOI 10.1007/s10943-011-9512-6
ISSN 1573-6571
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