Risky sexual behavior (RSB) accounts for a large majority of new HIV infections among both men and women irregardless of age, sexual orientation or ethnicity. Research and practice initiatives can be strengthened by providing a central definition of risky sexual behavior which is equally transferable across a diversity of behavioral contexts. The concept of RSB is widely used across nursing and other disciplines in research, theory, and practice, yet it is rarely defined. Poorly defined concepts can be obstacles to progress (practical and theoretical), particularly when popular. This presentation is designed to generate knowledge and stimulate discussion in analyzing the concept of risky sexual behavior for consistency, adequacy, and meaning. Components and subcomponents of the concept will be identified, and questions for future research will be discussed. were utilized, with responses limited to arti- outcomes in persons with SMI. HIV risk reduction strategies that target persons with SMI should occur at multiple levels with tailored interventions for the individual, group, and community. In order to be effective, interventions must incorporate several domains of influence that include psychiatric illness and comorbidities, social relationships, and trauma history. It is imperative that HIV prevention efforts are integrated into existing services such as psychotherapy, substance abuse treatment, primary care, housing and vocational programs.1. The participant will be able to describe the determinants of high risk behaviors in the SMI population.