Factors Mediating the Effects of Childhood Sexual Abuse on Risky Sexual Behavior Among College Women

Abstract

Abstract We surveyed 157 college women regarding sexual abuse, age at first intercourse, reactions to first intercourse, sexual attitudes, and sexual risk behavior outcomes to clarify the relationship between early sexual experiences and risky sexual behavior. Women who had been sexually abused in childhood reported greater numbers of lifetime sexual partners. This relationship was partially explained by adolescent/adult sexual abuse, age at first intercourse, permissive sexual attitudes, and reaction to first intercourse. Childhood sexual abuse was indirectly associated with more frequent use of alcohol or drugs during sexual activity through its relationships with adolescent/adult sexual abuse, age at first intercourse, permissive sexual attitudes, and reaction to first intercourse. Implications for therapists are discussed.