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Knowledge, Attitudes, and Behaviors of Runaway and Homeless Youths

Susan Tucker Sugerman, MD, MPH; Albert C. Hergenroeder, MD; Mariam R. Chacko, MD; Guy S. Parcel, PhD

Am J Dis Child. 1991;145(4):431-436.

Abstract
• Objective
To describe the knowledge, attitudes, and behaviors of runaway and homeless youths regarding infection with the human immunodeficiency virus (HIV).

Design
Cross-sectional, descriptive.

Setting
A crisis shelter for runaway and homeless youths.

Participants
One hundred one residents, aged 13 to 20 years, of a shelter for homeless and runaway youths in Houston, Tex.

Intervention
None.

Measurements/Main Results
A self-administered questionnaire was used to examine the knowledge, attitudes, and behaviors of these youths regarding infection with HIV. Nearly one fourth had injected illegal drugs; one fifth had shared needles for other purposes. Sixteen percent had had anal intercourse, 19% had engaged in prostitution, and 67% of all subjects reported having four or more sexual partners. One fifth reported that they always use condoms. While quite knowledgeable about means of transmission, they held prevalent misconceptions about casual contact and risk reduction. Youths perceive few barriers to condom use, have fairly high intentions to practice preventive behavior, and have high self-efficacy to do so. Most believe they are at little or no risk for acquiring HIV. These findings support the need for medical, educational, and social service programs to reduce the risk of HIV among these youths.

Conclusion
Runaway and homeless youths practice behaviors that place them at high risk for acquisition of HIV infection. Risk reduction is imperative and will require programs that address the educational, psychological, social, and medical needs of these youths.

(AJDC. 1991;145:431-436)

Author Affiliations
From the Univeristy of Texas School of Public Health (Dr Sugerman) and the Center for Health Promotion Research and Development (Dr Parcel), University of Texas School of Public Health, Houston; and the Sections of Adolescent Medicine (Drs Hergenroeder and Chacko) and Academic Ambulatory Pediatrics (Dr Chacko), Department of Pediatrics, Baylor College of Medicine, Houston, Tex. Dr Sugerman is currently with University of Cincinnati (Ohio) Children's Hospital Medical Center.

Footnotes
Accepted for publication September 4, 1990.

Reprints not available.

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