Author:

• Sofia Aboim - Sofia Aboim - Lisboa, Lisboa - Instituto de Ciências Sociais da Universidade de Lisboa - <sofia.aboim@ics.ul.pt>

Thematic Area:

Não Categorizado

Abstract:

Abstract
On the basis of a representative survey carried out in 2007 to the Portuguese population aged between 18 and 65, this study investigates the impact of sexual life course factors on risk-taking behaviour and perceptions among 3055 heterosexual men and women. A number of sexual biography profiles were identified through cluster analysis of indicators related to the identity, number and sequence of partners over the life course. We discover six different profiles, from systematic occasional partnerships and use of paid sex, more frequent among men, to the one life partner profile, which is more related to women. By carrying out several linear regression analyses, we were able to evaluate the predictive impact of biographical factors on condom use and prevention behaviour. Our results indicate that sexual biographies are more important in explaining the prevalence of condom use with different sexual partners. On the other hand, fear of infection and information on HIV transmission seem to influence the cognitive mobilisation of prevention strategies and change of sexual behaviour. However, condom use is still more dependent on sexual life course and interaction with sexual partners.

Key-words
Acquired Immunodeficiency Syndrome; Sexually Transmitted Diseases; Sexual Behaviour; Sexual Biographies; Risk Factors

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