A Discriminant Analysis of Young Adults' Knowledge of the Human Papillomavirus and Self-Efficacy of Condom Use

Abstract

Five hundred and fifteen sexually active undergraduate students classified according to self reports of condom use responded to questions on knowledge of the Human papillomavirus (HPV) and self-efficacy regarding condom use. Varimax factor analysis of 21 knowledge questions on HPV and 14 attitudinal questions about sexually transmitted disease (STDs) identified 3 factors with internal levels of reliability of .60 or greater; factor analysis of the 28 item condom use self-efficacy scale identified 2 factors with internal reliability of .45 or greater. Students overall were unfamiliar with HPV or health consequences of HPV infection. Male nonusers of condoms (n = 203) compared to male users (n = 87) had twice the number of significant discriminant function coefficients regarding communication issues around condom use and less concern about STDs. Fewer differences were observed between female users (n = 114) and nonusers (n = 111) of condoms as determined by a discriminant analysis. Nonusers held negative views on their ability to discuss use without reducing sensation and their ability to discuss use with any partner they might have. The results underscore the potential of training in communication for prevention of the most common viral STD in the nation.