Date of Award

2019-01-01

Degree Name

Master of Arts

Department

Sociology

Advisor(s)

Ophra . Leyser-Whalen

Abstract

Sexual health research suggests that women who have sex, or have had sex, with women (WSW) are at a higher risk for negative reproductive health outcomes, however, WSW are less likely to use preventive reproductive health care than heterosexual women. This research aims to examine the constructions of knowledge and risk perceptions of sexual health practices and sexual health behaviors among WSW in the US. Sexual health practices and sexual health behaviors measures were based on self-reported sexual health knowledge, sexual health perceptions, and sexual activity. A convenience nationwide sample of 254 WSW participants recruited through online LBGTQIA+ social groups completed a confidential and anonymous online survey. The data present a diverse group of participants with a mean age of 38.8 (SD=11.54). 14 percent of participants are racial minorities and 20% of participants are Hispanic/Latinx. The mean household income is between $40,000 and $49,999 and the mean level of education is a 4-year degree. The results indicate that WSW have a general idea of sexual health knowledge about safer sex practices. WSW perceive low risk or to no risk at all for the transmission of STIs. WSW engage in a variety of sexual health behaviors that put them at risk for STIs. This study finds major implications for the development of new all-inclusive preventive programs and for sexual health healthcare providers.

Language

en

Provenance

Received from ProQuest

File Size

80 pages

File Format

application/pdf

Rights Holder

Denise Natalia Delgado

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Sociology Commons

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