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Studying Adolescent Male Sexuality: Where Are We?

NCJ Number
211076
Journal
Journal of Youth and Adolescence Volume: 34 Issue: 4 Dated: August 2005 Pages: 361-377
Author(s)
Laureen H. Smith; Barbara J. Guthrie; Deborah J. Oakley
Date Published
August 2005
Length
17 pages
Annotation
Through a review of the literature on adolescent males’ sexuality, this paper describes the state of the science and identifies promising concepts and research designs in order to guide future research.
Abstract
Adolescent males are seldom the focus of research related to adolescent sexuality or sexual activity with most studies focusing on females and their sexual activity. The male perspective increasingly is recognized as being different from their female counterparts. Greater understanding of gender-specific factors is necessary to develop effective and efficient programs targeting adolescent males. To better understand the state of the science of this area of research, the growing body of literature was reviewed, but limited to documented studies. The intent was to describe and summarize the literature and identify the next steps to expand the scientific knowledge base by building on this body of research. A total of 94 studies were selected for review. Most studies focusing on adolescent sexual activity were limited by a monolithic view of sexual activity that had the potential to limit the understanding needed to develop a scientific basis for interventions. Lacking from the studies was the inclusion of gender-specific factors that shape sexual activity. The greatest amount of research on sexual activity and sexuality has been a-theoretically driven. An understanding of male adolescent sexuality requires a broader perspective. References