WiTHDRAWN: Internet Use and Social Networks: Predictors of HIV Information Seeking and Testing Among Homeless Youth

Background: Relative to other groups, homeless youth are at an increased risk for contracting HIV. HIV testing is one of the most effective ways to mitigate their risk. Previous research shows that certain types of engagement and relationships maintained through the internet are predictive of HIV testing among homeless youth. This study aimed to complement this previous research and examine how homeless youth access the internet, if the individuals they engage with influence their HIV-related information seeking online, and if such information-seeking is associated with HIV testing. 

Method: A sample of 358 homeless youth (aged 13-25 years) was recruited between October 2011 and February 2012 from two drop-in centers in Los Angeles: one in Hollywood and one in Santa Monica. Youth were surveyed using an interviewer-administered social network questionnaire. Dependent variables included online HIV information seeking and HIV testing. Univariable and multivariable analyses were used to evaluate the influence of demographic characteristics, housing situation, internet access, and social capital on HIV information seeking and HIV testing among homeless youth.

Results: Observed differences in online HIV information seeking was not related to the geographic differences of the homeless youth. With respect to looking for HIV information online, there was a significant interaction effect between gender and sexual orientation. Relative to heterosexual girls, non-heterosexual girls (OR=0.34, p<0.05) were less likely to seek HIV information, but non-heterosexual boys were more likely than heterosexual girls to engage in this behavior (OR=5.89, p<0.01). Youth with a history of lifetime HIV testing were 2.5 times (p<0.05) more likely to report seeking HIV information online and 2.8 (p<0.05) times more likely to report having used the internet to locate HIV testing services. Youth who used email and/or social networking websites to communicate with caseworkers or agency staff were 2.7 (p<0.01) times more likely to report seeking HIV information online and 2.5 (p<0.01) times more likely to report seeking an HIV testing location online.

Conclusion: This study has important implications for practice. To increase HIV information seeking and HIV testing, service providers should expand the availability of computers and internet access for homeless youth at service agencies. Agencies should train their staff to actively communicate with youth via email and social networking sites and should develop policies and guidelines, accordingly. The ubiquity of the internet and social networking website use among homeless youth can also pave the way for the online delivery of HIV/AIDS preventive interventions.