Biomedical subjects

Eric R Buhi

Publications and source records attributed to Eric R Buhi.

4 recordsLinked to original sources

PubMed2007

Predictors of adolescent sexual behavior and intention: a theory-guided systematic review.

PURPOSE: To better understand why adolescents initiate sexual activity at early ages, we conducted a systematic literature review guided by eight key elements outlined in an integrative theoretical framework. METHODS: Using the matrix method for literature reviews, we extracted-from 69 published studies-statistically significant and nonsignificant findings (related to the attempted prediction/explanation of adolescents' sexual behavior and intention) and organized them using the various integrative model elements. We also assessed these publications' methodological quality including each study's deployment of theory, appropriate design, and data analytic/reporting techniques. RESULTS: Three integrative theoretical framework elements-intention, perceived norms, and an environmental constraint variable, time home alone-emerged as stable predictors of sexual behavior outcomes in this body of literature. This analysis revealed, however, a literature that has remained rather stagnant regarding its methodological quality, over time. CONCLUSIONS: Implications for adolescent sexual health promotion practice and research are discussed.

Adolescent↗

PubMed2006

Self-esteem and adolescent sexual behaviors, attitudes, and intentions: a systematic review.

PURPOSE: This review systematically examined the relationship between self-esteem and adolescents' sexual behaviors, attitudes, and intentions, as empirically investigated by researchers over the last 20 years. METHODS: Based on the Matrix Method for systematic reviews, five electronic databases and reference lists of published studies were searched. Thirty-eight (n = 38) publications met specific inclusion and exclusion criteria and comprised the final sample. Each study was assigned a methodological quality score (MQS; maximum = 20 points). Each study's empirical test of the relationship between self-esteem and sexual behaviors/attitudes/intentions was counted as a single finding and was classified as exhibiting an inverse linear relationship, no statistically significant linear relationship, or a positive linear relationship. RESULTS: A total of 189 findings (average = 4.97/publication, range 1-28) were analyzed. Most findings (n = 138, 73%) consisted of tests of self-esteem and sexual behaviors. Regarding the nature of the relationship between self-esteem and the various behavior/attitude/intention variables, 62% of behavior findings and 72% of the attitudinal findings exhibited no statistically significant association. All of the intention-related findings exhibited some type of relationship (either positive or inverse). Studies' average MQS was 11.71 (SD = 1.60). Higher quality studies yielded findings of positive or absence of relationship (Cramer's V = .329, p = .001). CONCLUSIONS: If most findings exhibit no association between self-esteem and adolescent sexual behaviors/attitudes/intentions, questions are inevitably raised whether the emphasis placed on self-esteem by public health professionals is innocuous. Recommendations for methodological improvement of this body of research are also presented.

Adolescent↗

PubMed2005

Reliability reporting practices in rape myth research.

A number of school-based programs address sexual violence by focusing on adolescents' attitudes about rape or acceptance of rape myths. However, many problems exist in the literature regarding measurement of rape myth acceptance, including issues of reliability and validity. This paper addresses measurement reliability issues and reviews reliability reporting practices of studies using the Burt Rape Myth Acceptance Scale. Less than one-half of the 68 articles examined reported reliability coefficients for the data collected. Almost one-third of the studies did not mention reliability. Examples of acceptable reliability reporting are provided. It is argued that reliability coefficients for the data actually analyzed should always be assessed and reported when interpreting program results. Implicationsfor school health research and practice are discussed.

Adolescent↗

PubMedDate not supplied

Structural equation modeling: a primer for health behavior researchers.

OBJECTIVE: To introduce the state of the art of structural equation modeling (SEM). METHOD: This primer is organized in a manner allowing readers to review any one of 5 freestanding sections. RESULTS: SEM maintains several advantages over regression and other multivariate techniques. Through a 2-step modeling process, SEM strengthens research by allowing for the specification of complex, theory-driven models that can be tested with empirical data. Although use of SEM alone is not a magic solution, new software developments provide users with unparalleled flexibility for improving research. CONCLUSION: SEM must be thrust into the daily vocabulary and routine practice of health behavior researchers.

Health Behavior↗