Sound minds for safe decisions: Preventing high risk sexual behaviors among young adults in a disadvantaged and underserved population

In the U.S. 19.3% of young adults used alcohol and/or drugs before their last sexual intercourse. Substance use is associated with risky sexual behaviors and a major cause of unintended pregnancies, sexually transmitted diseases (i.e., HIV/AIDS), and a poorer quality of life. In order to address this issue, graduate students performed a targeted needs and assets assessment with underserved young adults and staff at the Provisional Accelerated Learning (PAL) Center, located in a low income, un-incorporated community in San Bernardino, CA.  Data collection included a literature review, demographic review, windshield survey; theory based semi-structured interviews and a confirmatory focus group.  Perceived susceptibility to risks, seriousness of risks, consequences, and benefits of preventive actions were explored. The results indicated that the students  had many myths and misconceptions about drug and alcohol use and sex, were unaware of their own susceptibility to the harmful effects of having unprotected sex under the influence of substances, and did not have a reliable source of information about either. They acknowledged the hindrance and mind altering effects of alcohol and drugs (except marijuana) on their sexual behaviors, but were unable to provide ways of avoiding this mix. The staff felt they needed help in realizing their own susceptibility to the consequences of these risky behaviors.  We then planned, implemented, and evaluated a program including debunking myths, FDA approved contraceptive methods, negotiating the use of protection with their partner, and credible community resources. We evaluated the program using process and impact evaluation for program improvement and sustainability.