Factors Associated with HIV Testing among African American Female Adolescents in Juvenile Detention Centers

AIDS Behav. 2016 Sep;20(9):2010-3. doi: 10.1007/s10461-016-1310-4.

Abstract

Background: Little is known about sexual and psychosocial factors associated with HIV testing among detained African American female adolescents-an understudied group at risk for HIV.

Methods: 188 detained African American female adolescents completed assessments on HIV testing, sexual risk behaviors, and psychosocial factors.

Results: Unprotected vaginal sex, history of STI-positivity or pregnancy, higher STI knowledge, and lower partner availability were associated with a higher likelihood of ever being tested for HIV.

Discussion: HIV testing is the gateway to important services for high-risk HIV-positive and HIV-negative adolescents. More research is needed to address barriers and to inform programmatic changes to increase testing among youth.

Keywords: Incarcerated; Risky sexual behavior; STIs; Testing; Youth.

MeSH terms

  • Adolescent
  • Black or African American / psychology*
  • Black or African American / statistics & numerical data
  • Female
  • HIV Infections / diagnosis
  • HIV Infections / ethnology
  • HIV Infections / prevention & control*
  • Humans
  • Male
  • Mass Screening
  • Pregnancy
  • Prisons
  • Risk-Taking
  • Sexual Behavior* / ethnology
  • Sexual Behavior* / psychology
  • Sexual Partners*
  • Sexually Transmitted Diseases / diagnosis
  • Sexually Transmitted Diseases / ethnology
  • Sexually Transmitted Diseases / prevention & control*
  • Unsafe Sex / psychology
  • Unsafe Sex / statistics & numerical data*
  • Young Adult