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Kiti Freier, PhD, Departments of Psychology and Pediatrics, Loma Linda University and Children's Hospital, 11130 Anderson St., Suite 102, Loma Linda, CA 92350, 909-558-8725, kfreier@psych.llu.edu, Duane McBride, PhD, Center for Prevention Research, Andrews University, Highway 31, Berrien Springs, MI 49104-0211, Gary Hopkins, MD, DrPH, School of Public Health, Loma Linda, Nichol Hall, Loma Linda, CA 92350, Talin Babikian, MA, Department of Psychology, Loma Linda University, 11130 Anderson St., Loma Linda, CA 92350, Lloyd Richardson, MD, Turning Point Foundation, c/o Kid FARE, 164 West Hospitality Lane Suite #3, San Bernardino, CA 92408, and Herbert W. Helm, PhD, Department of Behavioral Science, Andrews University, 123 Nethery Hall, Berrien Springs, MI 49104.
The highest incidence rates of HIV/AIDS in the Caribbean are recorded in the heterosexual and youth populations. Alcohol and other drugs are significant youth risk behaviors related to this epidemic. Because of limited data, there is a pressing need to address the risk behaviors of youth in the Caribbean. The objectives of this study were to describe the extent of youth risk behavior, explore the role of parental relationship and communication to youth in explaining risk behavior. The sample consisted of over 1,200 students (age range 14-18, mean 15.6 (s.d. 1.7). The data were collected in Spring 2001 in seven secondary schools on a Caribbean island. The survey instrument included demographic information as well as communication and relationship with parents. In addition, health risk behavior prevalence, including tobacco, alcohol, and drug use was attainted via questions derived from the Center for Disease Control’s (CDC) Youth Risk Behavior Survey (YRBS). After attaining parental consent and student assent, participants were surveyed in their classrooms. Results showed a high rate of risk behavior in the school population in the country studied. Analysis also showed a relatively high rate of bonding with parents and communication about risk behaviors. Additionally, there were consistent significant relationships between parental bonding and lower alcohol, tobacco and drug use. Additional analysis will be presented focusing on the relationship between parental bonding, communication and substance use. The data suggest that prevention and intervention programs should consider the role of parent communication and connection.
Learning Objectives:
Keywords: Adolescents, International, Risk Behavior
Presenting author's disclosure statement:
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.