Sexual Behavior Patterns of Black Young Adults in Georgia: Results from a Latent Class Analysis

The state of Georgia ranks first in the rate of new diagnosis of HIV/AIDS, yet studies focused on understanding the drivers of this epidemic in the most at-risk groups outside the Atlanta Metropolitan Statistical Area (MSA) remain sparse. Among the many consequences of this is the inability to effectively design tailored intervention programs that appropriately address the reduction of HIV/AIDS and other STDS in the state. Reducing disparities in HIV/AIDS remains an important goal in the National HIV/AIDS Strategy. Given the disproportionate burden of the HIV/AIDS epidemic among Blacks in the state of Georgia, there is a significant need to focus research attention on the sexual behavior of young people that predisposes them to increased risk of HIV/AIDS infection. The current study used latent class analysis (LCA) to examine the sexual behavior patterns of Black young adults living in Georgia. LCA results revealed a two-class fit with distinct sexual behavior patterns. Gender and educational attainment emerged as significant predictors of class membership. Our findings contribute to the vast literature showing that sexual behavior patterns of Black young adults are not homogenous, and underscore the significance of socio-demographic and contextual factors in shaping sexual risk behavior.