Condom Attitude Concordance Between Couples As a Predictor of Use

Background: Condom use is a partner negotiated behavior. As such, the degree to which partners agree in their beliefs and attitudes about condoms may influence the consistency of use. This study focuses on the concordance of condom attitudes and beliefs between partners as a measure of subjective norms and a predictor of use. Methods: The Couples’ Daily Vibrator Use Study collected information about condom attitudes, self-efficacy, beliefs and use from 206 heterosexual couples; 412 individuals, ages 18 to 49 years. Analyses of the individual and dyadic data relied on structural equation modeling to test the effects of concordance between measures on condom use. Results: Global and local fit statistics indicate that the model with concordance measures reflects the underlying data. The greater the concordance of positive attitudes (β=0.27, p≤0.05) and mutual self-efficacy (β= 0.52, p≤0.05) between male and female partners, the greater the reported level of condom use (β= 0.29, p≤0.05). While belief concordance is high (R² = 0.64), it does not predict condom use. Conclusions: When couples use condoms, of particular concern, is convenience or ease rather than beliefs about effectiveness. Condom attitude concordance is an effective measure of subjective norms, especially in the context of romantic/ monogamous relationships. Behavioral models should consider such measures when such behaviors are partner mediated.