Abstract
Reducing disparities in STI/HIV rates for young heterosexual African-American women in the US is a public health priority. Although several strategies can reduce risk, some sexually experienced young women are choosing to abstain from sex for various reasons and periods of time following sexual debut, a practice known as secondary abstinence. However, others who desire to practice secondary abstinence find it difficult to do so. This qualitative study explored barriers that explained the dissonance between interest in secondary abstinence and continued sexual activity. In-depth interviews were conducted with 20 sexually-experienced African-American adolescent females, ages 18 - 23, who expressed interest in secondary abstinence. Partner-related barriers that created power imbalances presented the greatest challenges to becoming or remaining abstinent. Findings suggest that teaching young women how to recognize characteristics of healthy and unhealthy relationships, identify power imbalances, communicate assertively and develop positive coping skills can empower young women to build healthier relationships with their partners.
Highlights
Disparities in rates of HIV/AIDS and STIs in the US are striking
Data from a clinic-based sample of sexually experienced African-American adolescent females participating in a risk reduction intervention suggests all who are motivated to abstain may not be equipped to do so
Since little is known in this area, a qualitative approach was employed to gain an in-depth understanding of their experiences. The purpose of this qualitative study was to identify barriers that may prevent sexually experienced African-American young women who are interested in practicing secondary abstinence from doing so
Summary
Disparities in rates of HIV/AIDS and STIs in the US are striking. AIDS diagnoses rates were 20 times higher for African-American women compared to White women in 2010 [1]. A number of effective risk reduction interventions have been shown to reduce risky sexual behaviors, such as unprotected vaginal sex, and STI rates among participants [3]. Data from a clinic-based sample of sexually experienced African-American adolescent females participating in a risk reduction intervention suggests all who are motivated to abstain may not be equipped to do so. A qualitative study of African-American adolescent females revealed pressure from romantic partners made abstinence a challenge [20]. To our knowledge there have been no published studies in the literature examining dissonance between interest in secondary abstinence and continued sexual activity among African-American young women at risk for STI/HIV. The purpose of this qualitative study was to identify barriers that may prevent sexually experienced African-American young women who are interested in practicing secondary abstinence from doing so
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