Journal, A26). Some teens have a low sense of self-esteem that makes them vulnerable to peer pressure whereas others have an overly inflated view of themselves and their ability to avoid negative consequences, which increases risk-taking behaviors. Early sexual behavior has been realted to various types of risk taking behaviors, such as alcohol, drugs, and delinquency. For example, alcohol and drug use appear to lower teens’ inhibitions and decrease the likelihood of contraceptive use. Kirby’s research on teen pregnancy concludes that sexual activity seems not to be related to self-esteem (Kirby, 1997). Boys and girls with high and low self-esteem are equally sexually active. However, self-esteem is linked with effective contraceptive use. Those teens with high self-esteem are more likely than other teens to use contraceptives responsibly and effectively. However, some researchers feel that a low self-esteem is a large contributor to teen sexual activity and pregnancy. For example, a teenage girl with a low self-esteem may intentionally attempt to become pregnant. This is an attempt to exert control over others, such as boyfriends or parents. Similarly, a teenage girl may want a baby in a wish to have someone to love, who will in turn love them. There is growing agreement within the research community that one of the most important factors in retarding teen sexuality and pregnancies is the disapprobation of society, especially of one's family and peers. A recent large-scale study found that parents' attitudes and relationships with their teen children could be highly influential. The study concluded: "parents who give dear messages about delaying sex have children who are less likely to have early intercourse." Early childhood experiences can make all the difference. Higher levels of parent to teen communication have been related to less permissive sexual attitudes, whereas poor communication with parents and ...
