KNOWLEDGE OF AIDS AND SEXUALLY-TRANSMITTED DISEASES AMONG FOSTER ADOLESCENTS

This study reports on knowledge about AIDS and sexually transmitted diseases among foster adolescents. The sample consisted of 533 older adolescent state wards in out-of-home placements in Illinois, Indiana, and Ohio. Knowledge levels were classified by sex and race. Foster adolescent scores were compared with the results of the National Adolescent Student Health Survey. The older foster adolescent sample scored slightly higher than the 10th grade NASHS sample. within the foster youth sample, females scored higher than males, and Whites scored higher than non-Whites. Overall, White females scored highest, and minority males scored lowest. Variations in knowledge levels and implications for AIDS prevention education are discussed. Special attention in AIDS education should be directed toward male minority foster adolescents.