Project Title
Sexual Identity, Gender Identity, and Risk Behaviors in the 2019 Vermont Youth Risk Behavior Survey
Date of Publication
2021
Faculty Mentor
Kelsey Gleason
Abstract
Abstract
Title: Sexual Identity, Gender Identity, and Risk Behaviors in the 2019 Vermont Youth Risk Behavior Survey
Objective
To examine the association between self-reported sexual identity, gender identity, and sexual risk behaviors in the 2019 Vermont Youth Risk Behavior Survey (YRBS).
Methods
We built a multivariate binomial logistic regression models to assess the relationship among sexual identity, gender identity, and Sexual Risk Index (SRI), a novel binary summary score (low vs. high risk) of endorsed YRBS items related to sexual risk behaviors. The regression models included potential confounders and demographic variables of interest found to be statistically significant through univariate analyses (p < 0.05).
Results
Results of the analysis for the association between SRI and transgender identity demonstrated an OR = 4.5 (p < 0.01; 95% CI = 1.46, 13.99). Results of the analysis for the association between SRI and sexual identity (gay or lesbian) demonstrated an OR = 4.2 (p < 0.01; 95% CI = 2.47, 7.05).
Conclusions
Students identifying as gay or lesbian, or transgender are significantly more likely to engage in risky sexual behavior compared to cisgender, heterosexual peers. The results of this study underscore the need for increased support of LGBTQ youth in school settings.
Document Type
Project
Recommended Citation
Eckenrod, Alexandrea; Ivanciu, Alexandra; Fleming, Emily; Rasumussen, Avery; and Gleason, Kelsey, "Sexual Identity, Gender Identity, and Risk Behaviors in the 2019 Vermont Youth Risk Behavior Survey" (2021). Master of Public Health Culminating Projects. 19.
https://scholarworks.uvm.edu/mphcp/19
Frequency distribution of race/ethnicity, YRBS 2019