BACKGROUND: Research indicates that relationship factors affect African-American males increased risk for sexually transmitted diseases (STD). African-American male STD clients report high numbers of partners, short acquaintance before sex, low condom use, non-discriminant partner recruitment, and the belief that knowing one's partner obviates the need for condom use. This study examines the implications of traditionalism and emotional involvement on men's condom use with the most recent partner. METHODS: Data for the study are based on face-to-face survey of 335 African-American males (15 to 63 years, mean=28) who presented at a county public health STD clinic. The questionnaire included items about sexual relationship for 3 most recent partners and risk-relevant attitudes and behavior. RESULTS: Median lifetime partners was 15. Almost 59% characterized their most recent partner as "main" partner. Internal consistency for scales for traditionalism (alpha=.63), condom beliefs (alpha=.70) and emotional involvement (alpha=.94) were modest to high. Multivariate logistic regression indicates that relationship context variables such as greater number of lifetime partners, low frequency of sex as well as belief in condom use and low traditional male role increases condom use. Older age, being traditional and low condom beliefs were associated with willingness to use condoms. CONCLUSION: Given the age range, association of willingness to use condoms with traditionalism and low condom beliefs may indicate a non-linear relationship. The association of nontraditional male with strong condom beliefs has implications for effective condom promotion. Understanding the dynamics of relationship issues can help identify the efficacy of STD counseling and couple-based intervention.
Learning Objectives: THE IMPORTANCE OF UNDERSTANDING RELATIONSHIP ISSUES FOR IDENTIFYING AT-RISK INDIVIDUALS, EFFICACIOUS INDIVIDUAL AND COUPLES COUNSELING FOR AFICAN-AMERICAN MALES
Keywords: STD, Male Reproductive Health
Presenting author's disclosure statement:
Organization/institution whose products or services will be discussed: University of Alabama at Birmingham
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.