Risky sexual behavior and STI testing among teens experiencing homelessness.

Authors

Halverson, M. Hatchimonji, D.R., Treglia, D., Flatley, C.A., Herbers, J.E., & Cutuli, J.J.

Type
Journal Article
Year published
2022
Journal
Children and Youth Services Review
Attachments
Document
Halverson_2022.pdf (494.69 KB)
Title

Risky sexual behavior and STI testing among teens experiencing homelessness.

Volume and issue

139, 106538

Abstract

Teens who experience homelessness are more likely to engage in risky sexual behavior, though less is reliably known about sexually transmitted infection (STI) testing rates in this group. We tested for differences in sexual behaviors and STI/HIV testing based on student homelessness and intersecting factors using data from the 2019 Youth Risk Behavior Survey administered in 7 states and 3 school districts. Students who experienced homelessness were more likely to report risky sexual behavior. Race moderated this link, suggesting that Asian students who experienced homelessness were at greater risk. Homelessness was linked to a greater likelihood of having been tested for STIs/HIV among those who seemed to be in groups recommended for testing. Student sex and lesbian, gay, and bisexual (LGB) identity did not moderate associations between homelessness and risky sexual behavior or STI/HIV testing. The overall sample demonstrated low STI testing rates, indicating a continued need to improve testing rates for all youth at risk for STIs/HIV.