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Adolescent Sexual Behaviors at Varying Levels of Substance Use Frequency

NCJ Number
229502
Journal
Journal of Child & Adolescent Substance Abuse Volume: 19 Issue: 1 Dated: January-March 2010 Pages: 66-77
Author(s)
Leah J. Floyd; William Latimer
Date Published
January 2010
Length
12 pages
Annotation
This study examined the relationship between alcohol and marijuana use frequency and specific sexual behaviors in a large sample of adolescents 12 to 19 years of age.
Abstract
Combining substance use and sex compounds the risk of contracting sexually transmitted diseases, including HIV. However, the association between substance use and sexual behaviors may vary by substance and sexual behavior. The current study sought to examine the relationship between alcohol and marijuana use frequency and specific sexual behaviors. The International Longitudinal Survey of Adolescent Health was administered to 1,432 youths in 1 middle school and 1 high school in Minnesota. Results from logistic regression analyses indicated a relationship between alcohol and marijuana use and being sexually active. However, only marijuana use was associated with having multiple partners. To aid researchers in designing more effective HIV prevention interventions, future research should focus on understanding the differential effects of alcohol and marijuana on sexual behaviors. Table and references (Published Abstract)