Factors affecting risk‐taking behaviors among sexually active adolescents tested for HIV/STD

Abstract

AbstractObjectiveThe purpose of this secondary data analysis was to identify potential contributors to high‐risk sexual behaviors among sexually active adolescents who were tested for HIV and STDs compared to those who did not test for HIV and STDs.MethodData from the 2019 Youth Risk Behavior Survey (YRBS) was used to explore potential predictors of risky behaviors among those tested for HIV/STD. A sample size of 3226 from the YRBS data base was used to explore predictors using Chi‐square and logistic regressions analyses.ResultsMost adolescents reported not being tested for HIV (77.4%) and STD (83.9%). There were statistical differences between those tested for HIV and condom use, sexual intercourse before the age of 13 years, sexual intercourse with multiple people, and use of marijuana. Similar findings were found with adolescents tested for STDs.ConclusionFindings of this study support the recommendations for a better understanding of the associations between drug use, early initiation of sexual activity, and condom use. Development of appropriate public health educational interventions can help decrease risky behaviors among these adolescents.