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Updated: Sep 2, 2025
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A Modified Trier Social Stress Test for Vulnerable Mexican American Adolescents
Published on: July 10, 2017
12.9K
Relationship Power, Acculturation, and Sexual Risk Behavior Among Low-Income Latinas of Mexican or Puerto Rican
Kathleen Ragsdale1, Cheryl Gore-Felton2, Cheryl Koopman2
1Department of Anthropology and Middle Eastern Cultures, and the Social Science Research Center, Mississippi State University, 1 Research Blvd, Suite 103, Starkville, MS 39759.
Summary
Young Latinas face higher HIV/AIDS rates. Relationship power significantly impacts unprotected sex, suggesting interventions focused on this could reduce HIV risk for this demographic.
Area of Science:
- Public Health
- Sociology
- Epidemiology
Background:
- Young adult Latinas are disproportionately affected by HIV/AIDS in the U.S.
- Heterosexual contact is the primary transmission route for HIV in this population.
Purpose of the Study:
- To examine sexual risk behaviors among young, low-income Latinas.
- To identify factors associated with unprotected sex in primary heterosexual relationships.
Main Methods:
- Survey data collected from 40 Latinas (ages 18-29) at a Midwestern family planning clinic.
- Assessed sociodemographics, relationship power, acculturation, and unprotected sex with primary and extradyadic partners.
- Statistical analysis controlled for age and ethnic identity.
Main Results:
- Lower relationship power was significantly associated with increased reporting of unprotected sex with primary partners.
- Acculturation and nativity did not show significant associations after controlling for other variables.
Conclusions:
- HIV-prevention interventions targeting relationship power dynamics may be effective for young heterosexual Latinas.
- Empowering Latinas within relationships could be a key strategy in reducing HIV transmission risk.
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