Identification of social cognitive variables as predictors of safer sex behavior and intent in heterosexual college students

Abstract

The purpose of this study was to identify social cognitive factors significantly associated with consistent condom use and safer sex intentions for heterosexual college students. No or newrelationship involvement, positive attitudes toward condoms, higher HIV risk perceptions, being male, and being younger were associated with more consistent condom use. Higher HIV risk perceptions, positive attitudes toward condoms, safer sex negotiation, no or newer relationship involvement, lower classification, and higher safer sex perceptions of self-efficacy were associated with increased intent to engage in safer sex. HIV knowledge was not associated with safer sex intent or condom use. HIV intervention must go beyond presenting infmation. Interwention must incorporate social cognitive factors associated with safer sex intent and practice into their design, targeting groups and building safer sex skills.