Although interpersonal variables such as sexual communication have been found to be associated with condom use in other populations, few researchers have investigated this relationship among adolescents requiring detention in juvenile facilities. The present study investigated the relationship between communication about sexual history and incarcerated adolescents' condom use. We used multivariate logistic regression techniques to analyze interview data from a predominantly Latino sample of 2,132 sexually active adolescents detained in Los Angeles County Juvenile Hall. Adolescents who reported that they knew someone with AIDS were also more likely to use condoms. Interventions designed to increase condom use among sexually active incarcerated adolescents should include a component addressing sexual communication practices.
More research is needed on the ways in which adolescents learn to communicate about sex.
The Effectiveness of Peer HIV Education for Inmates Entering State Prison . Prevalence and Correlates of Hepatitis C Virus Infection among Inmates Entering the California Correctional System . These data indicate that HCV infection is common among both men and women entering prison. Studies, August 2000. Studies, December 2000.