While consistent condom use can protect individuals from infection with HIV and other STDs, this use must be negotiated within the context of a relationship. Given this context, interventions specifically targeted for couples should be considered. This paper describes a couples based, group intervention that was developed for heterosexual, ethnically diverse, young couples (18 - 25 years old) who engage in high risk sexual behavior. The intervention was designed from information provided in earlier formative interviews with couples. Based on the formative data and the Information Motivation and Behavior (IMB) model (Misovich, Fisher & Fisher, 1997), a 3 session couples intervention was developed which integrates a focus on disease and pregnancy prevention. Each session utilizes interactive, skills- based activities designed to increase a sense of vulnerability, to increase both partner’s motivation to change, and to provide the necessary skills to make behavioral changes. In addition, other activities focus on improving the couple’s relationship and eroticizing safer sexual behaviors. Activities vary in the use of group process and individual couple’s discussion. At the conclusion of intervention, couples work through an individualized worksheet to develop their own safer sex plan, choosing one of three options presented throughout the three sessions. Examples of these activities will be shown and described. The intervention is being compared to an intervention using an enhanced standard of care model. Initial data on those couples who have completed the intervention will be presented.
Learning Objectives: 1. Identify the 5 most common high-risk sexual behaviors in which young men and women report engaging. 2. Describe the Information, Motivation, and Behavior (IMB) model (Misovich, Fisher & Fisher, 1997) and how it relates to changes in high risk sexual behavior in couples. 3. Identify key intervention components and activities and their relationship to changing couples’ high risk sexual behaviors within the context of the IMB model
Keywords: HIV Interventions, Behavioral Research
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.