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.