Ott, Mary A.Wells, MatthewImburgia, Teresa M.Yang, ZiyiTu, WanzhuAuerswald, Colette L.2020-11-182020-11-182019-01-14Ott, M. A., Wells, M., Imburgia, T. M., Yang, Z., Tu, W., & Auerswald, C. L. (2019). The Sexual Health Needs of Adolescent Boys Involved in a Pregnancy. Journal of Adolescent Health, 64(4), 537–540. https://doi.org/10.1016/j.jadohealth.2018.10.2991054-139Xhttps://hdl.handle.net/1805/24442Objectives: Little is known about fatherhood in middle adolescence. In order to better understand their sexual health needs, we describe relationship characteristics, perception of masculinity and associated STI risk behaviors in a community-based sample of urban middle adolescent boys who have fathered a child or been involved with a pregnancy. Methods: We employed venue-based sampling to recruit 339 boys (14-17 years old) in neighborhoods with high STI prevalence. We administered a brief survey on sexual, relationship and pregnancy history, STI risk, juvenile justice involvement, and masculinity. Results: Fifteen percent had either fathered a child or been involved with a pregnancy. In multivariate analysis, controlling for age and ethnicity, adolescent fathers were more likely to be involved with juvenile justice and engage in STI risk behaviors. These included condom non-use and partner checking a cell phone. Although of borderline significance, older partners, past STI testing, and drug or alcohol use at last sex improved model fit. Conclusion: Adolescent fathers have distinct relational and sexual health needs. Their specific needs should be targeted by prevention programs. Implications and Contribution: Most research on young men involved in pregnancy is with older adolescents/young adults, and in clinical or institutional settings. Using community engagement and venue-based sampling, this study describes sexual behaviors, masculinity, and relationship characteristics among 14-17 year old boys who have caused a pregnancy. Findings identify their distinct sexual health needs.en-USAdolescent MaleSexual BehaviorVenue-Based SamplingFatherhoodPregnancyMasculinityCommunity-based researchArticle