Factors that positively influence self efficacy change among Migrant Workers

Background: Research has found that self-efficacy (SE) is a crucial predictor of practicing safer sex behaviors. Self-efficacy measures an individual's belief in their ability to regulate their own behavior, which is crucial in undertaking safer behaviors. Methods: Data was used from an HIV/AIDS prevention project for MWs in Immokalee, Florida (n=270). The sample was predominantly males (64%). Baseline and 6 month follow-up period were used to assess the associations between short-term changes in ethnic identity belonging (EIb), social support, and self-efficacy. Self-efficacy assessed by an individual's perception of his or her ability to use condoms. Subjects were divided into two groups: positive self-efficacy change and negative or no change in self-efficacy score. A logistic regression was conducted to assess the predictors of self-efficacy change. Results: Fifty-seven percent of subjects' SE scores increased across time. Sixty percent of Hispanics' and 53% of African Americans' SE scores increased. The independent variables included in the model were EIb, social proficiency scale, gender, and ethnicity. The significant predictors were EIb (B=0.420, Wald *2 =4.079, p=0.043), and gender (B=0.549, Wald χ 2 = 4.078, p=0.043). The overall model was χ 2(4, n=270) =16.145, p=0.003. Conclusion: Positive changes in SE, possibly due to the ongoing HIV prevention project, were associated with positive changes in the EIb score, primarily among males. The association between EIb and condom use SE needs to be continually addressed. Behavioral intervention education and counseling should consider EI component while dealing with SE.