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Article
An analysis of the sexual health and safety information study abroad directors present their students prior to departure
Journal of American College Health (2020)
  • Meredith C. Joppa, Rowan University
  • Tiffany L. Marcantonio, University of Arkansas
  • Jill Swirsky, Temple University
  • D.J. Angelone, Rowan University
Abstract
Objective: Study abroad students engage in problematic alcohol use, risky sexual activity, and maintain high risk for sexual assault; however, there is a lack of information about relevant prevention practices in study abroad programs. The purpose of this project was to understand the health and safety behaviors (HSBs) discussed with students prior to departure. Method: A total of 143 study abroad program directors from the U.S. completed an online survey, including demographics of the program director and institution, and questions about the HSBs discussed with students. Results: Chi-square analyses revealed that discussions of HSBs rarely differed by institution size or location; however, all HSBs were more likely to be discussed by directors administering programs with higher enrollment. Conclusion: Study abroad directors provide some basic information on sexual health to their students; however, more work is needed to ensure students are informed and attending to information about potential health risks prior to traveling abroad.
Disciplines
Publication Date
2020
DOI
10.1080/07448481.2018.1515758
Citation Information
Meredith C. Joppa, Tiffany L. Marcantonio, Jill Swirsky and D.J. Angelone. "An analysis of the sexual health and safety information study abroad directors present their students prior to departure" Journal of American College Health Vol. 68 Iss. 1 (2020)
Available at: http://works.bepress.com/meredith-joppa/33/