Sexual behavior, contraception, and risk among college students
D M Siegel1, D I Klein, K J Roghmann
1Department of Pediatrics, Rochester General Hospital, University of Rochester School of Medicine and Dentistry, New York 14621, USA.
Summary
College students
Area of Science:
- Public Health
- Sociology
- Sexual Health
Background:
- College students exhibit diverse sexual behaviors.
- Understanding these behaviors is crucial for targeted health interventions.
Purpose of the Study:
- To compare sexual behavior, contraception choices, and HIV risk across college academic years.
- To identify differences and similarities among freshmen, sophomores, juniors, and seniors.
Main Methods:
- A 41-item sexual behavior questionnaire was administered.
- A convenience sample of 797 college students participated.
Main Results:
- Sexual activity levels are comparable to other surveys.
- Seniors reported increased oral contraceptive use without more condom use and greater reliance on women for contraception.
- Low rates of HIV testing were observed; women reported greater relationship duration and communication before intercourse.
Conclusions:
- Sexual behavior, contraception, and HIV testing vary significantly across college years.
- University health programs must acknowledge these cohort differences.
- Tailored sexual health education is recommended.
Keywords:
AmericasBehaviorBiologyContraceptionContraceptive UsageDemographic FactorsDeveloped CountriesEducationFamily PlanningNew YorkNorth AmericaNorthern AmericaPopulationPopulation CharacteristicsResearch ReportRisk BehaviorRisk FactorsRisk Reduction BehaviorSchoolsSex BehaviorSex FactorsStudentsUnited StatesUniversities
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