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Discount rates and risky sexual behaviors among teenagers and young adults

Author

Listed:
  • Harrell Chesson
  • Jami Leichliter
  • Gregory Zimet
  • Susan Rosenthal
  • David Bernstein
  • Kenneth Fife

Abstract

This article examines the relationship between personal discount rates and sexual behaviors in a sample of teenagers and young adults. We find that higher discount rates (an indication of less willingness to forego current consumption for future consumption) are significantly associated with a range of sexual behaviors, including ever having sex, having sex before age 16 years, and past or current pregnancy. These associations are consistent with previous studies showing a link between discounting and other, non-sexual health behaviors. Copyright Springer Science + Business Media, LLC 2006

Suggested Citation

  • Harrell Chesson & Jami Leichliter & Gregory Zimet & Susan Rosenthal & David Bernstein & Kenneth Fife, 2006. "Discount rates and risky sexual behaviors among teenagers and young adults," Journal of Risk and Uncertainty, Springer, vol. 32(3), pages 217-230, May.
    • Handle: RePEc:kap:jrisku:v:32:y:2006:i:3:p:217-230
    DOI: 10.1007/s11166-006-9520-1
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    References listed on IDEAS

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