Effect of parental monitoring on the sexual behaviours of adolescents in Jamaica.

This study attempts to understand the association between perceived parental monitoring and early adolescents’ sexual behaviors among school children in Jamaica. Data were collected from adolescent school children in Montego Bay Jamaica in the age group between 12 and 14 years with informed consent taken from the parents/guardians and the adolescent who participated in the study. The study employs four domains to understand the influence of perceived parental monitoring on sexual behavior: peer group influence self-efficiency self-confidence towards abstinence and attitudes toward the sexual act. A discussion of the relationship between these domains and their application in the lives of adolescents in Jamaica recommends that sex education to school children should be introduced in all school and community programs along with the establishment of education programs for parents and elderly members.