Body image and HIV risk among college students
Gillen, M.M.; Markey, C.N.
American journal of health behavior 38(6): 816-822
2014
ISSN/ISBN: 1945-7359 PMID: 25207507 DOI: 10.5993/ajhb.38.6.3Document Number: 627362
To focus on the role of sex, race/ethnicity, and body image in HIV-protective behaviors. Undergraduates (N = 277; 53% women; M = 19.27 years old) from the United States completed a survey on HIV-related behaviors and body image (appearance orientation and appearance evaluation). Women and African Americans/ Blacks were more likely to have ever had an HIV test. African Americans/Blacks and individuals who had more positive evaluations of their appearance were more likely to have ever asked a partner's HIV status and to have asked a partner to get tested for HIV. Findings indicate low rates of HIV testing and communication with a partner about HIV, suggesting the importance of sexual health intervention and education programs for college students.