Perceptions of Power Dynamics and Sexual Decision-Making among Rural College-Age African American Women

According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), African Americans accounted for nearly 44% of all new HIV infections in 2010. Although, prevalence rates for African American women have decreased by 21%, they are still twenty and five times more likely to contract the virus when compared to White and Hispanic women respectively. The CDC states that 87% of new HIV infection among African American women can be attributed to heterosexual relationships (CDC, 2014). When used correctly and consistently condoms are cited as being one of the most effective contraceptives against contracting HIV. However, barriers such as lack of condom negotiation skills may impact HIV risk among minority groups such as African American women. This research study illustrates that exploration of factors that influence sexual decision making such as condom negotiation and power dynamics can assist in creating culturally relevant HIV policies and initiatives. The immediate aim of this study is to examine the relationship between power dynamics and condom negotiation amongst rural college-age African American women. Through a qualitative exploratory study conducted at Georgia Southern University, African American women are able to provide insight into their perceptions of HIV risks.