Results of the study found that familial abuse experiences were not necessarily associated with recent sexual risk behaviors among adults. In contrast, physical abuse experiences, particularly by a romantic partner were associated with engaging in adult sexual risk behaviors among women. It was found that these associations were not mediated by alcohol use or depressive symptomatology. A total of 1,428 low income women between 18 and 40 years old attending family planning clinic appointments between October 1999 and November 2000 in Southeast Texas completed a self-report survey regarding their recent sexual behaviors and sexual and physical abuse history. The women were also administered the Beck Depression Inventory Short Form to assess current depressive symptoms. Future research should examine how multiple forms of abuse including physical, sexual, and emotional abuse occurring at different developmental stages affect sexual risk behaviors. Tables, references