Sexual Abuse History and Gender, and HIV Risk Practices among Urban-Dwelling African Americans

• In Event: 322 - Section on Medical Sociology Roundtable Session
  In Refereed Roundtable: Table 07. HIV/AIDS

Abstract

Purpose: Previous research has demonstrated that HIV risk practices often differ based on gender and on whether or not people experienced sexual abuse during their formative years. The interaction of these two factors has been the focus of little scientific inquiry, and this is the focus of the present study. Methods: Based on a model derived from Social Disorganization Theory and Syndemics Theory, interviews were conducted between 2009 and 2011 with 1,864 African American adults residing in Atlanta, Georgia in 80 strategically-chosen census tracts. Census tracts were selected on the basis of such factors as low household income, low education levels for heads of household, and low levels of labor force participation. Results: Based on multiple regression and structural equation analyses, the interaction of sexual abuse and gender was found to be a significant predictor of involvement in (un)protected sex. The interaction item was also related to condom use self-efficacy, which was one of the strongest factors underlying (un)protected sex. Conclusions: The relationship of sexual abuse history and gender is relevant in the understanding of HIV risk practices in the population at hand. The interaction of these factors with one another and with other relevant influences to shape people’s risk profiles is complex. The Syndemics Theory approach used to conceptualize the relationships among relevant variables in this study is an effective way of trying to understand HIV risk practices.

Authors

• Hugh Klein, Kensington Research Institute

• Claire E. Sterk, Emory University

• Kirk W. Elifson, Georgia State University