Sexually-transmitted diseases are a widespread issue. A 2006 study involved female adolescents who have contracted STD’s. The researchers examined several risk factors including family support, sexual behavior, and community violence. They also looked into psychological factors: risk-seeking attitudes, and mood and behavioral disorders. In regard to these psychological factors, it was reported that higher levels of risk-seeking attitudes and the presence of mood and behavioral disorders were directly correlated with the acquisition of sexually-transmitted diseases for teen girls.
From a psychological perspective, there are a multitude of options for decreasing the chances of propagation of such diseases. Risk-seeking attitudes were found by answering positively to questions such as “do you enjoy risk-taking?”. This is related to personality. However, sometimes, people take risks because they are bored or do not feel as though they get enough excitement out of life. Teens with risk-seeking attitudes could change this mindset if their schools and caregivers provided them with safe recreational opportunities, or help them indulge in activities that will lower their high need-for-adrenaline level that are safe.
Mood and behavioral disorders are an international crisis, as mental diseases are present in humans across the world. Many seek to lower their symptoms through the use of anti-depressant, anti-anxiety, or anti-psychotic medication. Others stick to therapy. Some use both forms of treatment. Teenagers should be exposed to these resources. Making these common forms of treatment available to teens by educating them on the possible risks of their behavior could potentially lower STD transmission rates.
References:
Voisin, D. R., DiClemente, R. J., Salazar, L. F., Crosby, R. A., & Yarber, W. L. (2006). Ecological Factors Associated with STD Risk Behaviors among Detained Female Adolescents. Social Work, 51(1), 71–79. https://doi.org/10.1093/sw/51.1.71
