Risky Sexual Behavior in Academically At-Risk Older Adolescents: Examining the Relationship of Substance Use and Developmental Assets with Condom Use

The impacts of substance use and developmental assets on condom use among sexually active adolescents is not well understood. The present study utilized baseline data from a study targeting youth age 17-19 identified as high risk for dropping out of high school in order to better understand these associations. Using chi-square and regression analysis, the study sought to examine the link between substance use and condom use during vaginal intercourse, moderated by developmental assets, such as supports, empowerment, boundaries, positive values, social competence, and positive identity. Findings indicate that substance use may increase condom nonuse with developmental assets possibly decreasing the risk of substance use. Implications are discussed.Keywords: Substance use, condoms, sexual health, developmental assets, at-risk adolescent