This study examines contextual measures of childhood sexual abuse and their relationship to HIV/AIDS riskbehavior s using a sample of 1,198 newly admitted female prisoners in 1998-1999. Analyses revealed that sexually abused prisoners were more likely to have experienced childhood neglect, come from one-parent families, and had parents with drug and/or alcohol and psychiatric problems. Sexually abused women reportedly engaged in more high-riskdrug and sexual activities than nonabused counterparts. Additionally, inmates involved in risk-taking behaviors were more likely to have prior prison incarcerations. The findings suggest that prison-based programs are needed to assist women prisoners, especially those sexually abused as children.
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