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Inability to communicate with a sexual partner about risky
sexual behavior is a significant predictor of unsafe sexual
intercourse. Adolescents are inexperienced in communicating
with sexual partners and may have difficulty communicating
about intimate details of their sexual past.
The overall goal of this study is
to determine patterns of communication about risky sexual
behavior between risk-taking adolescent sexual partners.
Specific aims are to: (a) explore what is communicated
between risk-taking adolescent sexual partners; (b) explore
the timing of communication about risky sexual behavior; (c)
identify factors which facilitate or hinder communication
between risk-taking adolescent sexual partners; (d) explore
how communication about risky sexual behavior varies in
casual and established sexual relationships; and (e) explore
gender and ethnic similarities and differences between
risk-taking adolescent sexual partners.
A between method triangulation
study using grounded theory methodology and a
self-administered survey will be used to explore patterns of
communication about risky sexual behavior between adolescent
sexual partners. The sample for the proposed study (N=60)
will be recruited from students attending alternative high
schools in a southern city.
Findings from this research will
provide a better understanding of relevant and effective
strategies to promote effective communication and reduce the
risk of STD and HIV infection among adolescents.
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