Results. Seventy-five percent of the sexually active students were male. Significantly more females had discussed AIDS and sexually transmitted diseases (STDs) issues with their partners and had asked their partners about their sexual histories than males. Students endorsing the use of preventive behaviors were more likely to have discussed AIDS issues with their partners, used condoms, and known their partner's sexual history.
Conclusions. Student perceptions about preventive behaviors have a significant impact on their knowledge of their sexual partners and their own sexual behaviors. These findings, as well as the presence of significant gender differences in perceptions and communications with their partners, have major implications for risk reduction programs.