Knowledge,beliefs, peer norms,and past behaviors as correlates of risky sexual behaviors among college students |
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Authors: | Jeffrey Ratleff-crain Kelli M. Donald Joline Dalton |
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Affiliation: | 1. Division of Social Sciences , University of Minnesota , Morris, MN, 56267, USA;2. School of Allied Health, Department of Occupational Therapy , Medical College of Ohio , 3015 Arlington Ave, Toledo, OH, 43614, USA;3. Bayer School of Natural and Environmental Science, Department of Biological Sciences , Duquesne University , Pittsburgh, PA, 15282, USA |
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Abstract: | Abstract HIV/AIDS knowledge, age at onset of sexual activity, perceptions of personal risk and peer norms were explored as correlates for risky sexual behaviors among college students. Ninety-nine male and 185 female college students completed a 66-item questionnaire. A majority reported being sexually active with most in mutually monogamous relationships or not currently in a sexual relationship. Multiple regression correlation analyses showed knowledge about HIV/AIDS to be very high but that this knowledge did not independently relate to the extent of risky behaviors. Perceptions of risk were positively related to number of partners and single-time partners but not condom usage. In contrast to previous studies, perceived peer norms did not independently relate to behaviors. Instead, age at first intercourse was found to have substantial overlap with current perceptions, attitudes, and likelihood for engaging in risky behaviors. The necessity for including previous behaviors in analyses of the impact of attitudes and perceived norms on behavioral intentions is discussed. |
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Keywords: | HIV/AIDS risky sexual behaviors condom use peer norms sexual history college students Problem-Behavior Theory. |
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