Objective: This study of 522 sexually active African-American adolescent females, investigated associations between psychosocial predictors and consistent condom usage. Methods: African-American females, ages 14-18, were recruited from schools and health clinics. Adolescents completed a self-administered questionnaire and face-to-face interview that assessed psychosocial aspects of sexual risk behaviors. Consistent condom users were defined as those who used condoms every time they had sexual activity in the past 6 months. Significant bivariate correlates were entered into a multiple linear regression model using a stepwise procedure. Results: Two hundred and fifty-seven (53.9%) adolescents were classified as consistent condom users. Significant multivariate correlates of consistent condom use were low self-confidence in using a condom properly (AOR=.509, P < .001), increased overall barriers in using condoms (AOR=1.966, P=.005), and increased motivational barriers in using condoms (AOR=2.250, P < .001). Discussion: These findings suggest that consistent condom users may be resistant to using condoms all the time, but choose to do so for various reasons: for instance, having multiple sex partners or fear of being pregnant or contracting a sexually transmitted infection. Focus on intervention should continue to highlight the importance of using condoms consistently as a protective measure against high-risk sexual behaviors.
Learning Objectives: Session participants will be able to identify and discuss the factors that predict exposure to consistent condom use among African-American female adolescents.
Keywords: Sexual Risk Behavior, Condom Use
Presenting author's disclosure statement:
Organization/institution whose products or services will be discussed: None
Disclosure not received
Relationship: Not Received.