Is It Associated with Risky Sexual Behavior and Psychosocial Mediators of HIV/STI-Associated Sexual Risk Behavior?
Background: Previous research has established that racial disparities exist regarding HIV/STI diagnoses. African-American women are disproportionately represented among HIV/STI diagnoses in the United States, especially in the South. Therefore, it is pertinent to examine factors associated with increased risky sexual behaviors to have a better understanding of the disparities in this population. Objectives: To examine the associations between experiences of racial discrimination and risky sexual behavior and psychosocial mediators of HIV/STI-risk behaviors among young adult African-American women. Methods: Eight hundred forty-eight African-American women, 18-29 years, participated in the study at baseline. Data collection occurred from October 2002 through March 2006. Participants completed a 40-minute Audio Computer Assisted Survey Interview (ACASI) assessing sociodemographics, experiences with racial discrimination via The Schedule of Racist Events, multiple sexual partners, risky/ab