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High-Risk Behaviors Among Male Street Youth in Hollywood, California

NCJ Number
138870
Journal
AIDS Education and Prevention, Supplement Dated: (Fall 1992) Pages: 24-33
Author(s)
J N Pennbridge; T E Freese; R G MacKenzie
Date Published
1992
Length
10 pages
Annotation
A sample of 446 male street youth in Hollywood, California, between the ages of 14 and 23, was interviewed to determine patterns of street-youth involvement in survival and recreational sex that could put them at risk of contracting HIV. The participants, who were interviewed at several community-based drop-in centers, were largely from ethnic minorities.
Abstract
The results showed that 97 percent of the males were sexually active, with more than 27 percent involved in prostitution during the 3 months prior to the interview. Older, self-identified homosexual males were most likely to be involved in prostitution. The most prevalent risk factors identified among the respondents were inconsistent condom use, high-risk sexual behaviors during both survival and recreational sex, large numbers of partners, intravenous drug use, and the use of drugs and alcohol during sex. The authors maintain that, until a comprehensive system of services for street youth is in place, service providers must provide free condoms, bleach, and sterile needles; teach youth how to negotiate safe sexual practices with their partners; and model proper use of protective devices. Service providers must also encourage profound behavior modification. 2 tables and 29 references.

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