Context: Isolated studies indicate that pregnancy and sexually transmitted diseases are on the rise among unmarried teenagers in India. However, little research has focused on sexual behavior among unmarried young people, partly because of the assumption that it is governed by traditional norms. Methods: Results of a 1997 survey conducted among 966 low-income college students in metropolitan Mumbai (Bombay) are examined to identify levels of sexual behavior. Multivariate analysis is used to determine correlates of that behavior. Results: Some 47% of male participants and 13% of female respondents had had any sexual experience with a member of the opposite sex; 26% and 3%, respectively: had had intercourse. Individual-level characteristics such as age and personal income had modest effects on students' sexual behavior, and family-level variables had no significant effects. The strongest predictors of sexual behavior were students' knowledge about sexuality-related issues, attitudes toward sex, and levels of social interaction and exposure to erotic materials. However, the results differed for young men and women, and the effect of knowledge was inconsistent. Conclusions: Traditional norms and the role of the family are losing their importance in governing young people's sexual behavior in India. School-based sexuality programs are needed that will provide students with accurate information about pregnancy, contraception and sexually transmitted diseases.
