Women's ability to negotiate safer sexual practices, particularly condom use, is vital for HIV/STD prevention and their reproductive health. This study tests the hypothesis that sexual relationship power is a key factor in condom use negotiation. A new measure -- the Sexual Relationship Power Scale (SRPS)-- was applied in the investigation. Data were collected from 388 women at an urban community health center, the majority of whom were Latina (89%) and African-American (8%). Women with high levels of relationship power were approximately five times as likely as women with low levels to report consistent condom use, after controlling for relevant socio-demographic and psycho-social variables (p<0.05). An estimated 52% of the lack of consistent condom use among women in the population can be attributed to low sexual relationship power (assuming a causal relationship). These findings underscore the importance of including the issue of relationship power in the design and implementation of programs that promote safer sex decision-making.
Learning Objectives: At the conclusion of this session, the participant will be able to : 1. Describe a new scale to measure relationship power: The Sexual Relationship Power Scale (SRPS) 2. Articulate the impact of relationship power on condom use - negotiations 3. Recognize implications for programs and policy related to condom use promotion and HIV/AIDS risk reduction
Keywords: Women and HIV/AIDS, 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.