Exploring the Mediating Mechanism Between Gender-Based Violence and Biologically Confirmed Chlamydia Among Detained Adolescent Girls

Abstract

The study examined several behavioral mechanisms that link gender-based violence (GBV) to STD among detained, sexually active adolescent girls. Girls ( N = 198) were recruited from eight youth detention facilities. Measures were assessed using audiocomputer—assisted self-interviewing. DNA amplification was conducted to assess for chlamydia. Thirty-one percent had experienced GBV and 15% tested positive for chlamydia. GBV was related to chlamydia directly and indirectly through condom failures and through having sexual intercourse while high on drugs and/or alcohol. The study found that sexual risk reduction programs may benefit this population by addressing the role of GBV and its association with STD-associated behaviors.