Using the YRBSS to Assess the Health Behaviors of Bi/Multiracial Adolescents

J Health Care Poor Underserved. 2022;33(3):1478-1493. doi: 10.1353/hpu.2022.0125.

Abstract

Numerous research articles are published yearly that focus on the health status of minorities, but what is lacking is a dedicated section for those who identify as bi/multiracial (B/MR). This research attempted to add to the limited but growing body of literature dedicated to the B/MR community. Using the Youth Risk Behavioral Surveillance System (YRBSS), three behaviors were assessed: tobacco and alcohol use and adolescent sexual practices. The composite scores were then evaluated by racial status (Black, B/MR, and White adolescents) and sex. Aggregate results for these three behaviors varied across all three racial categories and, to a lesser extent, by sex. The implications for these results indicate a need for more specific and targeted approaches for the prevention or risk-reducing programs based on racial identity group.

MeSH terms

  • Adolescent
  • Adolescent Behavior*
  • Health Behavior
  • Humans
  • Risk-Taking
  • Sexual Behavior
  • Substance-Related Disorders* / epidemiology