Risk Factors for HIV Among Urban African American Youth
Co-Investigator: Thomas Hanlon, Ph.D.
Funded By: National Center on Minority Health and Health Disparities
Grant #: 4R00 MD002271
Total Project Period: 12/08 – 11/12
The primary aim of this cross-sectional study is to examine the extent to which specific risk and protective factors predict both perceptions of HIV risk and participation in risky sexual behavior among high-risk African American youth. These youth, currently attending Alternative Education Programs (AEP), have exhibited academic, school conduct, and behavioral problems. Participants will be 200 male and female students, between the ages of 12 and 16. Half of the participants will be assessed the first project year and the remainder assessed in the second year. This research study has the potential to provide a greater understanding of issues related to perceptions of HIV risk and participation in risky sexual behaviors among high-risk urban African American youth. Findings from the study will be of significance to the field of public health by filling important knowledge gaps in terms of risk for HIV infection among such youth.