PATERNIDADE NA ADOLESCÊNCIA: PREVALÊNCIA E FATORES ASSOCIADOS PELOTAS RS

Abstract

Objective: To describe the prevalence of fatherhood in adolescence (FA) and associated factors in a community sample of 14-35 year old males. Methods: Cross-sectional study carried out in the urban area of the city of Pelotas, southern Brazil. The sample was selected by clusters, according to the city census. This sub-study only comprised sexually active males. Data were collected using a self-administered questionnaire in the participants homes. The chi-square test and the Poisson regression analysis were used to evaluate the hypotheses. Results: The sample comprised a total of 1612 individuals. Females (n=913) and those who have not had the sexual debut (n=95) were excluded; the final sample was of 604 men, ages between 14-35 years. Among these, the prevalence of adolescent fathers was 6.1% (n=37). After the adjusted analysis, such prevalence was associated to the black skin color (p=0.002), lower economic index (p=0.032), having a partner (p=0.046) and an early sexual debut (p=0.001). Conclusions: Fatherhood should be considered a possibility in the lives of any youngster, especially those in a situation of social vulnerability. A sexual early experience is a characteristic of this age and is one of the social requirements for the recognition of masculinity. However, an early sexual debut is closely related to FA. Prevention strategies and investment in social support networks are necessary, aiming to educate the adolescent to the responsible sexuality