209049 Faith as a facilitator: Uncovering mediators of sexual risk behavior

Wednesday, November 11, 2009

Erin Bradley, MPH , Rollins School of Public Health Department of Behavioral Sciences and Health Education, Emory University, Atlanta, GA
Mary Ukuku, MPH , Rollins School of Public Health, Emory University, Decatur, GA
Tiffaney Renfro, MSW , Rollins School of Public Health, Emory University, Decatur, GA
Jessica Sales, PhD , Rollins School of Public Health Department of Behavioral Sciences and Health Education, Emory University, Atlanta, GA
Ralph J. DiClemente, PhD , Rollins School of Public Health and Center for AIDS Research, Emory Univeristy, Atlanta, GA
Background: The purpose of this study is to examine relationships between religiosity and mediators of sexual risk behavior among sexually experienced African-American adolescent females.

Methods: Sociodemographic, family, and self-reported behavioral data were obtained from 701 African-American adolescent females (ages 14-20 years) seeking services at reproductive health clinics. Data were obtained at baseline, prior to randomization and participation in an HIV prevention trial. Analyses were performed to test associations between religiosity and mediators of sexual risk behaviors (refusal self-efficacy, partner communication self-efficacy, frequency of communication with partner about sex, and social support).

Results: Adolescents classified as more religious reported higher self-efficacy for refusing unwanted or unsafe sex (p<.01), more social support (p<.05), and more frequent communication with partners about HIV, STIs, and pregnancy prevention (p<.01). Communication self-efficacy was marginally significant.

Conclusions: Results suggest religiosity positively impacts factors protective against sexual risk. Findings highlight the important role faith communities may play in reducing HIV/STIs and unintended pregnancy among African-American adolescent females. Future research exploring more direct relationships between religiosity and sexual behavior should consider these mediators.

Learning Objectives:
Describe the relationship between religiosity and protective factors associated with sexual risk among African-American female adolescents.

Keywords: Faith Community, Sexual Risk Behavior

Presenting author's disclosure statement:

Qualified on the content I am responsible for because: I received my MPH in Behavioral Sciences and Health Education and am pursuing a doctorate in the same area. I have worked in HIV prevention in research or health education for several years.
Any relevant financial relationships? No

I agree to comply with the American Public Health Association Conflict of Interest and Commercial Support Guidelines, and to disclose to the participants any off-label or experimental uses of a commercial product or service discussed in my presentation.

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