Factors Associated With Motivation to Change HIV Risk and Substance Use Behaviors Among Homeless Youth

• NCJ Number: 236980
• Journal: Journal of Social Work Practice in the Addictions Volume: 11 Issue: 2 Dated: April-June 2011 Pages: 163-180
• Author(s): Jennifer Collins, M.A.; Natasha Slesnick, Ph.D.
• Date Published: June 2011
• Length: 18 pages
• Grant Number(s): DA13549
• Sponsoring Agency: National Institute on Drug Abuse
• Publication Format: Article
• Publication Type: Report (Study/Research)
• Language: English
• Country: United States of America

Annotation

This study examined variables associated with motivation to change alcohol, drug use, and HIV risk behaviors among a sample of homeless youths.

Abstract

This study sought to identify and compare variables associated with motivation to change alcohol, drug use, and HIV risk behaviors among a sample of homeless youths. More frequent alcohol use, older age, and childhood sexual abuse were associated with greater motivation to change alcohol use; higher reported negative consequences of substance use were associated with higher motivation to reduce illicit drug use. Shorter periods of current homelessness predicted higher motivation to change HIV risk behaviors. Findings suggest these areas might be fruitful targets for intervention efforts to enhance motivation to reduce alcohol and illicit drug use and HIV risk behaviors. (Published Abstract)