The role of depressive symptoms in predicting sex with multiple and high-risk partners

J Acquir Immune Defic Syndr. 2005 Jan 1;38(1):69-73. doi: 10.1097/00126334-200501010-00013.

Abstract

Existing research examining the role of psychopathology on HIV risk behaviors has relied heavily upon cross-sectional data, making it difficult to assess causal relationships. This paper uses longitudinal data to examine the relationship between depressive symptoms and sexual risk behaviors in a community sample of 332 inner-city drug users. Results from repeated measures analysis using generalized estimating equations suggest that high depressive symptoms may be causally related to having sex with multiple partners (odds ratio = 1.55, CI: 1.12, 2.14) and having sex with injection drug users (odds ratio = 1.57, CI: 1.11, 2.22) and crack users (odds ratio = 1.37, CI: 1.02, 1.86). Findings support greater attention to depressive symptoms in HIV prevention interventions for illicit drug users to reduce sexual risk behaviors.

Publication types

  • Research Support, U.S. Gov't, P.H.S.

MeSH terms

  • Adult
  • Depression / complications
  • Depression / psychology*
  • Female
  • HIV Infections / prevention & control
  • HIV Infections / psychology*
  • HIV Infections / transmission*
  • Humans
  • Longitudinal Studies
  • Male
  • Middle Aged
  • Risk-Taking
  • Sexual Behavior*
  • Sexual Partners*
  • Substance-Related Disorders / complications
  • Substance-Related Disorders / psychology