The sexual practices of adolescent virgins: genital sexual activities of high school students who have never had vaginal intercourse
Schuster, M.A.; Bell, R.M.; Kanouse, D.E.
American Journal of Public Health 86(11): 1570-1576
1996
ISSN/ISBN: 0090-0036 PMID: 8916522 DOI: 10.2105/ajph.86.11.1570Document Number: 207380
Objectives. The purpose of this study was to determine whether high school-aged virgins engage in sexual practices that can transmit sexually transmitted diseases, including the human immunodeficiency virus (HIV). Methods. Data were collected from an anonymous self-administered survey of 2026 urban students in 9th through 12th grades. Results. Forty-seven percent of adolescents were virgins (42% of male adolescents and 53% of female adolescents). Of those who were virgins, 29% and 31% reported that, during the prior year, they had engaged in heterosexual masturbation of a partner and masturbation by a partner, respectively. The corresponding rates for heterosexual fellatio with ejaculation, cunnilingus, and anal intercourse were 9%, 10%, and 1%. Homosexual sexual activities were rare. Condom use for fellatio was also rare. Level of risk of virgins' sexual activities was associated with illicit substance use and other non-sexual risk behaviors, even after demographic variables had been controlled. Conclusions. Few high school-aged virgins engaged in anal intercourse, but many engaged in other genital sexual activities. Some of these activities can transmit disease, and all can indicate a need for counseling about sexual decision making, risk, and prevention.