Abstract
This study examined if behavioural and emotional problems during childhood predicted early sex (before 16 years), risky sex at age 21 and sexually transmitted infections (STls) up to 21 years. Some possible mediational pathways were also explored. Data used were from the Dunedin Multidisciplinary Health and Development Study, a prospective, longitudinal study of a birth cohort born in 1972-73. Adjustment was made for sex, socioeconomic status, parenting factors and residence changes. High levels of antisocial behaviour between age 5 and 11 years were associated with approximately double the odds of early and risky sex. No relation was observed between hyperactivity and later sexual health outcomes. In contrast, high levels of anxiety were associated with reduced odds of risky sex and STls. Involvement with delinquent peers partially mediated the association between antisocial behaviour and early and risky sex. Lack of attachment to parents also partially mediated the association between antisocial behaviour and early sex. The findings demonstrate links between behavioural and emotional problems occurring very early in life and later deleterious sexual health outcomes. Targeting antisocial behaviour and possibly low anxiety during childhood may help mitigate these negative consequences.