Personal, Cognitive, Behavioral, and Demographic Predictors of HIV Testing and STDs in Homeless Women
Description:
Using a multiracial sample of 621 homeless women, the authors tested a latent variable causal model of personal, cognitive, behavioral, and demographic predictors of two coping mediators and the outcome variables of HIV testing and return for test results and a recent STD infection. HIV testing and return were predicted by more social support, greater AIDS knowledge, greater perceived risk for AIDS, and more problem-focused coping strategies. Recent STDs were predicted by more AIDS knowledge, emotion-focused coping strategies, and risky sexual behavior and one measured variable, crack cocaine use. Emotion-focused strategies were predicted by drug use, less self-esteem, more social support, and greater perceived risk for AIDS. Predictors of problem-focused strategies included less drug use, more self-esteem, more social support, more AIDS knowledge, and less risky sexual behavior. Latinas reported more problem-focused strategies and less emotion-focused strategies than African Americans. The theoretical and practical implications for community outreach are discussed. (Authors)
Type of Resource:
Journal
Publication Date:
2000
Volume:
23
Issue:
2
Pages:
123-145