What data are collected on student sexual risk-taking behaviors?
For behavioral data, the CDE relies on the national biennial Youth Risk Behavior Survey (YRBS) conducted by the CDC. Further, there are numerous Web sites that reflect current trends and research on these topics. An optional module of the California Healthy Kids Survey (CHKS) also allows schools to collect information on a number of health topics, including sexual behavior (pregnancy and HIV/AIDS risk). The items in this optional module are largely derived from the YRBS. Questions address sexual experience, patterns, and attitudes; pregnancy history; HIV-related risk behaviors; number of partners (a risk factor for HIV); perception of peer behavioral norms; use of contraception; alcohol and other drug use before sexual intercourse; family discussion; and exposure to HIV/AIDS education. You can learn more by visiting the CHKS (Outside Source) Web site.
For behavioral data, the CDE relies on the national biennial Youth Risk Behavior Survey (YRBS) conducted by the CDC. Further, there are numerous Web sites that reflect current trends and research on these topics. An optional module of the California Healthy Kids Survey (Outside Source) also allows schools to collect information on a number of health topics, including sexual behavior (pregnancy and HIV/AIDS risk). The items in this optional module are largely derived from the YRBS. Questions address sexual experience, patterns, and attitudes; pregnancy history; HIV-related risk behaviors; number of partners (a risk factor for HIV); perception of peer behavioral norms; use of contraception; alcohol and other drug use before sexual intercourse; family discussion; and exposure to HIV/AIDS education.
