ABSTRACT
Item parcels, which form more stable indicators of latent constructs than individual items, were formed from single factor scales by averaging one positively and one reverse-scored negatively worded item. Scales that were handled in this manner include: Positive Family-of-Origin Environment (yielding three indicators assessing perceptions of family as understanding, helpful, and happy); Sexual Self-Acceptance (three indicators assessing sexual meaning, sexual control, and sexual esteem); Sexually Assertive Communication Regarding HIV Risk (three indicators measuring assertiveness regarding STD/HIV status, partner's partners, and partner and injection drugs); Sexual Assertiveness to Refuse Unwanted Sex (three indicators assessing refusal regarding oral sex, refuse even if pressured, and refuse regarding foreplay); and Sexual Assertiveness for Condom Use (three indicators measuring assertiveness even if partner doesn't want to use condoms, even if partner insists on not using condoms, and even if partner doesn't like condoms).
