Examining Adverse Childhood Experiences, Sexual Behaviors, and Condom Use among Undergraduate College Students

Background Understanding sexual behavior and its determinants among college students is crucial for promoting sexual health and well-being. Adverse Childhood Experiences (ACEs) may play a role in shaping sexual behaviors. The current study investigates the association between ACEs, condom use frequency, demographics, and consensual sexual intercourse among undergraduate college students. Methods Upon IRB approval, a paper survey was administered among undergraduate college students enrolled in the Health Promotion and Education classes at a midwestern urban campus. A total of 152 participants were recruited through convenient sampling. Results A univariate regression analysis was conducted to examine the association between sexual intercourse and categories of ACEs, age, condom use frequency, racial/ethnic identity, sexual orientation and sex assigned at birth. Age, condom use frequency, racial/ethnic identity as Asian and Caucasian were significant at p < 0.05. Furthermore, a final logistic regression model was significant (χ² = 127.740, df = 4, p < .001). Participant age and racial/ethnic identity as Caucasian emerged as significant in the model. Discussion The findings of this study encourage universities to expand their focus beyond traditional socio-demographic and educational factors when addressing risky sexual behaviors among college students. It highlights that ACEs may be a lingering influence driving sexual activity, suggesting that trauma-informed, tailored approaches can more effectively promote safe practices and address diverse student needs.