Understanding risky sexual behaviors and their impacts

Innovative approaches to measuring and identifying risky sexual behaviors

NIH-funded research University of Wisconsin-Madison · NIH-11125613

This study is looking into the different ways people might trade sex for things like money or drugs, both in real life and online, and it aims to create a helpful tool to better understand these situations and the risks involved, so we can learn more about how common this really is.

Quick facts

Grant typeR01 grant
Study typeNIH-funded research
Funding institutionUniversity of Wisconsin-Madison NIH-funded
Lab location1 site (Madison, United States)
Project IDNIH-11125613 on NIH RePORTER

What this research studies

This research investigates the complex issue of trading sex for compensation, such as money or drugs, particularly in the context of both in-person and virtual interactions. It aims to develop a comprehensive measurement tool that captures various aspects of sex trading behaviors, including the circumstances, risks, and protective factors involved. By validating this tool with diverse populations, the research seeks to provide a clearer understanding of the prevalence and characteristics of these behaviors, which may be more common than previously thought. The study will utilize a mixed-methods approach to gather detailed data and insights.

Who could benefit from this research

Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research include individuals from diverse backgrounds who may engage in or be affected by risky sexual behaviors, particularly those involved in sex trading.

Not a fit: Patients who do not engage in or are not affected by risky sexual behaviors may not receive direct benefits from this research.

Why it matters

Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to improved public health strategies and interventions aimed at reducing the risks associated with risky sexual behaviors.

How similar studies have performed: Previous research has shown that innovative measurement approaches can yield significant insights into sexual behaviors, suggesting that this study's methodology may be effective.

Where this research is happening

Madison, United States

Researchers

About this research

  1. This is an active NIH-funded research project — typically early-stage science, not a clinical trial accepting patient enrollment.
  2. Some NIH-funded labs run parallel clinical studies or seek volunteers for related work. To check, contact the principal investigator or institution listed above.
  3. For full project details, budget, and progress reports, visit the official NIH RePORTER page below.
Last reviewed 2026-06-13 by the Find a Trial editorial team. Information on this page is for educational purposes and is not medical advice. Always consult qualified healthcare professionals about clinical trial participation.