Background: This study examines the correlates of attitudes toward condoms among a high-risk sample, teenagers in the foster care system in one US jurisdiction. The correlates of attitudes toward condom use may help illuminate how these attitudes develop and can be altered.
Methods: In-person interviews were conducted with 168 youths 16-18 years of age in the foster care system in a Midwestern USA jurisdiction as part of a pre-test assessment in an HIV intervention program. Attitudes toward condoms were measured with six items from an HIV attitude scale (Slonim-Nevo et al, 1991). Behavioral problems were assessed with the Achenbach Youth Self-Report. Child maltreatment history was assessed with the Childhood Trauma Questionnaire. Youths were asked to indicate what proportion of their friends participated in ten different negative behaviors.
Results: Overall, attitudes toward condom use were favorable. OLS regression indicates that youths who lived in congregate care facilities had more negative attitudes toward condoms than youths living with families, even controlling for behavior problems that may have led to a group care placement. This effect was mediated by the effect of a negative peer group on condom attitudes. Also, youths who frequently engaged in sexual intercourse had more negative attitudes toward condoms. Together, these variables accounted for 22% of the variance in attitudes toward condoms. Race, gender, maltreatment history, and behavior problems were unrelated to attitudes toward condoms.
Conclusions: HIV prevention interventions should assess and address peer influences on attitudes toward condoms. This may be particularly important in congregate care facilities.
Learning Objectives: Particpants will be able to: 1. articulate risk factors for negative attitudes toward condoms; 2. describe how living situations for youth in out of home care may lead to increased HIV risk
Keywords: Adolescents, Condom Use
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.