Risky Sex and Drugs-Alcohol Use Predictors in Foster and Non-Foster Youth: Is there a Difference?

• In Event: Poster Session

Abstract

The understanding of adolescent risk-taking behaviors has been substantially supported by numerous theories across multiple populations. (e.g., Low Self-Control Theory, Gottfredson & Hirschi, 1990; Problem Behavior Theory, Jessor, 1998; Theory of Planned Behaviors, Ajzen, 2001). Indeed, robust empirical evidence has identified certain developmental pathways to problem behaviors in youth in general and an array of risk /protective factors have been found. However, other groups of youth have been widely stigmatized based on the assumption of different developmental pathways to behavioral outcomes due to trauma, abuse, neglect, and similar distressing experiences. This study examines the role of self-control, intolerance to deviance, peer risk-taking behaviors, and depression in foster and non-foster youth’s sexual risk-taking behaviors and drugs-alcohol use. Preliminary results from N=2,050 youth from a nationally representative sample provide evidence of significant associations among self-control, intolerance to deviance, depression, and peer risky behaviors across foster and non-foster youth risky sexual behaviors and drugs-alcohol use. Further analyses would examine potential differences by age, gender, and race/ethnicity across groups. Similar / different developmental outcomes in foster and non-foster youth will be discussed. Theoretical and practical implications as well as recommendations for policy makers, caregivers, practitioners and professionals working with youth would be also provided.

Authors

• Elizabeth Trejos, Texas Tech University

• Terri Hipps, BCFS Health and Human Services

• Gayle Davis, BCFS Health & Human Services