Semester

Fall

Date of Graduation

2009

Document Type

Thesis

Degree Type

MA

College

College of Education and Human Services

Department

Learning Sciences and Human Development

Committee Chair

Carol Markstrom.

Committee Co-Chair

Scott Cottrell

Committee Member

Kristin Moilanen

Abstract

Resources associated with learning about sexually transmitted diseases (STDs) were investigated in relation to college students' sexual knowledge and sexual self-efficacy. Participants included 50 male and 67 female students ages 18, 19, and 20 at West Virginia University. Self-report surveys included the Sexually Transmitted Disease Knowledge Questionnaire (STD-KQ; Jaworski & Carey, 2007), the Self-Efficacy Questionnaire (Cecil & Pinkerton, 1998), and a measure developed by the investigator on resources used by college students to learn about STDs. No relationship was identified between resources used to learn about STDs and college students' sexual knowledge. However, sexual knowledge was a significant predictor of high levels of sexual self-efficacy to refuse sexual intercourse, question potential sex partners, and condom use. Findings in this study confirm previous research on sexual knowledge related to high levels of sexual self-efficacy. Also, information is discussed on extending research for future interventions related to sexual education and prevention of STDs on college campuses.

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