Section III: Hispanic Women/Latina Concerns

Past Award Winners

Tiffany Schniffer Named 2005–2006 Student Scholar Hispanic Woman/Latina Awardee

Tiffany Schniffer

Division 35 Section III is pleased to announce that Tiffany Schniffer was awarded the 2005–2006 Student Scholar Latina/Hispanic Woman Award for her study entitled “Latina College Students’ Sexual Health Beliefs about the Human Papillomavirus Infection.

Study Abstract: To examine sociocultural influences on health disparities, in this qualitative study we examined Latina college students’ health beliefs about the human papillomavirus (HPV). A total of 16 informants participated in three focus groups. We found that students did not obtain Pap screenings or use condoms consistently. Moreover, their knowledge of HPV and cervical cancer was extremely low. Although informants desired more information and guidance about sexual health, they felt it was culturally inappropriate for them to obtain it. Findings highlight the importance of incorporating cultural considerations when designing research and educational programs with Latina college students.