Condom use to prevent transmission of HIV and other sexually transmitted diseases has been a key element in risk reduction, but much is still unknown about the factors shaping practice in the most vulnerable populations. A behavioral measure of condom use skills was employed with a target population of severely mentally ill adults with Alcohol and Other Drug (AOD) abuse in a sample of 182 sexually active men and women. Concomitantly, social contextual factors were measured to create a more complex predictive model of condom use. Participants were assessed by demonstrating correct condom use on a wooden penile model, according to a standard of nine steps successfully enacted. A median split divided participants into skilled (n=80) and unskilled (n=41) groups, which were then analyzed for associations with a set of social contextual variables, found to be theoretically relevant in prior studies. Although more dissatisfied with marital status, those classified as skilled reported more comfort in discussing safe sex with partners, less likelihood of living with alcohol abusers, and less difficulty with family and social problems. Married longer (p < .05), unskilled participants reported fewer social supports for safe sex, more conflicts with non-family members, and more drug using relationships within social networks. Logistic regression yielded significant social contextual predictors of skill level, including dissatisfaction with marital status, conflicts with non-family members, distress from social problems, and degree of protective communication and comfort. The implications for considering behavioral skills and context factors in design of effective interventions is discussed.
Learning Objectives: At the conclusion of this session, participants will have expanded their knowledge of condom use patterns as they relate to social context and social support among severely mentally ill adults.
Keywords: HIV Risk Behavior, Mental Health
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.