Exploring the Protective Effects of Judaism on Risky Behaviors in College Students: A Pilot Study

Abstract

BackgroundCommon risky behaviors among college-aged young adults include risky sexual behaviors and substance use. PurposeThis study examines the protective effects of Judaism on students' engagement in risky behaviors, building on a body of research on the protective effects of religious beliefs on risky health behaviors. MethodsValidated and reliable measures were used to assess religiosity and risky behaviors through anonymous surveys. Data was collected in Fall 2018 from a small cohort (N = 15) of Jewish day school students. ResultsFemales had overall higher rates of risky behaviors such as drinking or using drugs before sex (27% compared to 13% for males), not using condoms (62% to 0% for males), and higher rates of binge drinking (62% to 20% for males). ConclusionHigher religiosity was more associated with delayed sexual activity than substance use behaviors. Judaism and religiosity were more strongly associated with the male participants than the female. Practice implicationsSince the participants still had low rates of condom use and other high risk behaviors despite speaking with their healthcare providers, the health care community must better educate adolescents and young adults on the health and social consequences of such risky activities, both in formal education programs during middle and high school, and in office visits.