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Predictors of Secondary Abstinence in U.S. College Undergraduates

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Abstract

This study examined (1) the percentage of participants who practiced secondary sexual abstinence and (2) factors associated with its practice among a sample of U.S. college students. College undergraduate men and women (n = 1,133) in Texas completed a web-based survey assessing abstinence status and predictors of abstinent behavior. Results revealed that 12.5% of participants practiced secondary abstinence. Of eight variables, five significantly predicted secondary abstinence (following sexual initiation). Predictors were positive attitude toward abstinence, subjective norm supporting abstinence, greater religious ties, and previous negative sexual experiences. The fifth variable, participation in abstinence education, however, was associated with a significantly reduced likelihood of secondary abstinence. Fewer perceived barriers, less environmental manipulation (efforts to make physical and social environments supportive of abstinence), and greater religious ties significantly predicted self-efficacy for secondary abstinence. Findings provide an estimate of the percentage of participants who practiced secondary abstinence and suggest focal points for future research.

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Notes

  1. Information on the factor analysis, including factor scores, percent of variance explained, and Cronbach’s alpha reliability measures, is available from the corresponding author upon request.

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Acknowledgments

The authors would like to extend special thanks to Dr. B. E. (Buzz) Pruitt, Dr. Steve Dorman, and Dr. Yvonna Lincoln, members of the first author’s dissertation committee, for their contribution to and support of this research.

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Authors and Affiliations

  1. Department of Health, Physical Education, and Sport Sciences, Morehead State University, 200F Laughlin Health Building, Morehead, KY, 40351, USA

    Catherine N. Rasberry

  2. Department of Health and Kinesiology, Texas A&M University, College Station, TX, USA

    Patricia Goodson

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  1. Catherine N. Rasberry
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  2. Patricia Goodson
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Correspondence to Catherine N. Rasberry.

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Rasberry, C.N., Goodson, P. Predictors of Secondary Abstinence in U.S. College Undergraduates. Arch Sex Behav 38, 74–86 (2009). https://doi.org/10.1007/s10508-007-9214-z

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  • DOI: https://doi.org/10.1007/s10508-007-9214-z

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