Objectives: The goal of this study is to identify differences in the sexual health behaviors (consistent condom use and limiting sexual partners) between college students with same-sex sexual experiences and those with only opposite-sex partners. Methods: Data from a random sample American university students were gathered as part of the 1997 College Alcohol Study. Odds ratios were estimated for consistent condom use and multiple sex partners for students with same-sex sexual practices versus those with exclusively heterosexual contacts. Results: 5% of respondents reported ever having a same-sex partner. Significant differences in sexual health practices were found between groups. Students with same-sex experience were more likely to report multiple recent sexual partners than their peers with only opposite-sex partners. Odds ratios of consistent condom use were not significant at the .05 level for either men or women. Conclusions: These findings have implications for sexual health education on the college campus. Condom-use messages appear to reach both groups, but use remains low among college students. Education programs should emphasize the importance of minimizing lifetime sexual partnerships, especially among students with same-sex experiences.
Learning Objectives: At the conclusion of the session, participants in will be able to: 1. Describe key differences in sexual risk behaviors between college students with same-sex partners and those with opposite-sex partners 2. Articulate these behavioral differences and similarities and discuss their implications for sexual health education on college campuses. 3. Develop a sexual health education curriculum that appropriately addresses the needs of college students who have same-sex partners
Keywords: Sexual Behavior, College Students
Presenting author's disclosure statement:
Organization/institution whose products or services will be discussed: None
I do not have any significant financial interest/arrangement or affiliation with any organization/institution whose products or services are being discussed in this session.