Correlates of STI prevention knowledge among African American girls

• Authors: Dexter R. Voisin, University of Chicago; Kevin Tan, University of Chicago; Laura F. Salazar, University of Chicago; Richard Crosby, University of Chicago; Ralph J. DiClemente, University of Chicago; Ralph Joseph Diclemente, Emory University
• Journal Title: Journal of Adolescent Health
• Volume: Volume 51, Number 2
• Publisher: Elsevier | 2012-08-01, Pages 197-199
• Type of Work: Article | Post-print: After Peer Review
• Publisher DOI: http://doi.org/10.1016/j.jadohealth.2011.12.022
• Subjects: Psychology, Developmental; Health Sciences, Occupational Health and Safety; Health Sciences, Public Health
• Keywords: Social Sciences; Science & Technology; Life Sciences & Biomedicine; Psychology, Developmental; Public, Environmental & Occupational Health; Pediatrics; Psychology; STI prevention knowledge; African American girls; Gender and power; HIV/AIDS; GENDER; WOMEN

Abstract

Purpose: To identify significant factors that distinguish African American girls who have high sexually transmitted infection (STI) prevention knowledge from those lacking such knowledge. Methods: We recruited a sample of 715 African American girls from three public health clinics in downtown Atlanta. Using audio computer-assisted self-interviewing (A-CASI) technology, we assessed for age, self-mastery, employment status, attendance at sex education classes, socioeconomic status, and STI prevention knowledge. Results: Slightly more than one-third of the girls did not know that females are more susceptible to STI infections than males; and that having an STI increases the risk of contracting HIV. Almost half of the girls did not know if a man has an STI he will not have noticeable symptoms; and that most people who have AIDS look healthy. Logistic regression findings indicated that being older, having greater self-mastery, and being employed significantly predicted high STI knowledge. Conclusions: Health educators may especially target African American girls who are younger, unemployed, and experiencing low self-mastery for more tailored STI heath education.