Psychosocial factors leading to risky behavior amongst incarcerated women in Chicago, IL

Background: Incarcerated women are one of the most vulnerable and yet less studied populations in the US. Female inmates have often experienced some form of psychosocial trauma during their child or adult lives that increases their risk for HIV/AIDS. The objective of this study is to determine which psychosocial factors predispose female inmates to participate in behaviors increasing their risk for HIV/AIDS. Methods: Survey data collected in 2012 as a part of a NIDA funded study was used. A total of 400 women incarcerated in Cook County Jail were included. Descriptive analysis was conducted to examine the associations between demographic and psychosocial measures (self-esteem, social support, and depression) and sexual risks (condom use, number of sex partners, and sex exchange) Logistic regression modeling were done to determine the effects of psychosocial factors explaining sexual risky behavior, controlling for substance use, education, and employment status. Results: Over 66% were African American, 20% used condoms consistently. Only 8.5% had three or more sex partners, but 42% reported regular engagement in sex trade. Controlling for sociodemographic factors, women with a higher self-esteem were more likely to use condom consistently, while women with a higher level of depression were more likely to have a greater number of sex partners. In addition, a higher level of social support was associated with a lower likelihood of engaging in sex exchange. Conclusions: While socio-demographic factors are powerful forces that shape women's life, psychosocial factors mediate socioeconomic conditions and independently affect women's sexual risk behavior. In order to effectively control HIV/AIDS in the incarcerated women population is essential to determine and control psychosocial factors.