While nearly 2/3 of all cases of sexually transmitted diseases (STDs) are diagnosed in young adults, previous research has suggested that few feel vulnerable to infection with HIV or other STDs, particularly from a primary heterosexual partner. Several models of health related behavior change (such as the Health Belief, Information-Motivation-Behavior [IMB]) suggest that an increase in perceived vulnerability can lead to health behavior changes. This presentation will focus on changes in the perceived vulnerability to HIV and other STDs in participants in an HIV/STD prevention intervention, the PARTNERS Project. This intervention was developed for high risk young women, aged 18 to 25 years, and their self-identified primary male sexual partner. This randomized treatment comparison consists of two arms, a control and intervention condition. The one session control condition presents the community educational standard of care for the prevention of HIV/STDs, and unintended pregnancy. The three session intervention condition focuses on enhancing motivation and building skills. Couples individually complete a baseline assessment prior to the intervention and a post-test immediately following its end. Both assess an individual’s perceived vulnerability to infection with HIV and other STDs. This presentation will examine changes in perceived vulnerability from baseline to post-test in participants in the intervention and compare changes in participants in the control and intervention conditions. Analyses will be based on 110 couples who have completed baseline and post test measures. Implications of the findings on the efficacy of the couples based intervention will also be discussed.
Learning Objectives: At the conclusion of the session, the participant will be able to: 1. discuss the role of perceived vulnerability to infection with HIV or other STDs in the risky sexual behavior of young adults; 2. discuss the level of perceived vulnerability to infection with HIV or other STDs experienced by young heterosexual couples participating in the PARTNERS Project; 3. describe the changes in perceived vulnerability from baseline to post tests in participants in an HIV/STD prevention intervention.
Keywords: HIV/AIDS, Intervention
Presenting author's disclosure statement:
Organization/institution whose products or services will be discussed: None
I do not have any significant financial interest/arrangement or affiliation with any organization/institution whose products or services are being discussed in this session.