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July 17, 2006

Depression Linked to Risky Teen Behavior

A new study published in the July issue of Pediatrics shows that depression can lead teens to engage in risky sexual behavior, putting them at risk for AIDS and other STDs as well as unwanted pregnancies.

Boys who rated higher on a clinical scale of depression were more likely to say they had not used a condom or birth control the last time they had sex. As well, the more depressed the boy, the more likely he was to have consumed alcohol or drugs the last time he had sex.

Girls with higher depression scores were also more likely to say that they had not used a condom or birth control the last time they had sex. These girls were also more likely to indicate that they had had three or more sexual partners in the past year.

Depressed Teens At Higher Risk For Pregnancy, STDs

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