Risky Behaviors

Where It All Begins

Risky behaviors refer to the patterns of behaviors that put the life of a person and those around them at risk. It may also extend to their property and environment. Many forms of risky behaviors exist and they are more likely to arise from individuals who engage in sex at an early age. Statistics have shown that people who engage in early sex are 20% more likely to engage in delinquent behaviors. They tend to be a great concern to their parents, family, school and society because of their risky actions. Sex comes with emotional, social and behavioral responsibility that at an early age most people are not ready to handle.

Effects of Early Sex

There is a high probability of getting infected with Sexual transmitted infections (STIs) like syphilis, chlamydia, gonorrhea, HIV and genital herpes when a person indulges in early sex as compared to those who waited and initiated sex in their 20’s. 82% of teen pregnancies are not planned. Teens are accounting for about 20% of all unplanned pregnancies annually. On the average, girls who initiate sex at ages 13-14 have a 40% probability of giving birth out of wedlock as compared to girls who initiated sex at 21-22 years who have a probability of 9%.

People who engage in sex at an early age, tend to have low self esteem and poor body image and they are more likely to carry it into adulthood. People who start having sex at an early age have a higher risk of depression and anxiety. This depression and anxiety causes them to engage in risky behaviors such as drug abuse, alcohol abuse, or even violent behavior.

Drug/Alcohol Abuse

Initially, the drugs and alcohol are used to create a euphoric high and serve as an escape from problems until addiction sets in. Though the effect of substance abuse on a person varies depending on the substance used and other factors, the effect is equally devastating.  The effects of drug/alcohol abuse can include:

  • Unusual body odor.
  • Frequent hyperactive behaviors.
  • Changes in sleep pattern and appetite leading to weight loss.
  • Decrease in performance at work or attendance in school.
  • Withdrawal, anxiety, anger, and depression.

Violent Behavior

Engaging in sex comes with emotional responsibility, which can be a lot for a young person to take on. If they are not ready for this type of responsibility, they can be left depressed or angry. Violent and angry behaviors are then used as a means to vent out frustration. This could progress to dating violence, gang membership and other violent activities.

 

Resources:

Armour, S. and Haynie, D. (2007). Adolescent sexual debut and later delinquency. Journal of Youth and Adolescence, 36, 141-152.

Kaiser Family Foundation. (2005). U.S. teen sexual activity. Author: Washington, DC

Finer LB and Zolna MR, Unintended pregnancy in the United States: incidence and disparities, 2006, Contraception, 2011

The Heritage Foundation, The Harmful Effects of Early Sexual Activity and Multiple Sexual Partners Among Women, page 1-2, 2003

Adolescent Sexual Debut and Later Delinquency, Journal of Youth and Adolescence, Vol. 36, 2007, pp. 141-152