title: Group-based HIV risk reduction intervention for adolescent girls: evidence of feasibility and efficacy.
abstract: The purposes of this pilot study were (a) to assess the feasibility of a community-based, small group HIV risk reduction intervention with adolescent girls, and (b) to obtain preliminary evidence of the efficacy of this theoretically-guided intervention using a controlled design. The feasibility of the intervention was demonstrated by successfully implementing it with 33 sexually-active, single girls. Preliminary evidence of the efficacy of the intervention was obtained using a randomized trial with 62 sexually-active, single girls. Data obtained at a 3-month follow-up assessment showed that girls who received the HIV-related intervention improved their HIV-related knowledge and enhanced their motivation for risk reduction compared to girls who received a control (health promotion) intervention. Effect sizes suggest that the HIV intervention also reduced several risk behaviors (e.g., vaginal sex without a condom, giving oral sex, and alcohol and drug use before sex). Challenges to implementation and suggestions for intervention enhancement are discussed.
authors.affiliation: School of Nursing, Center for High-Risk Children and Youth, The University of Rochester, 601 Elmwood Avenue, Rochester, NY 14642-8404, USA.
authors.forename: Dianne
authors.initials: D
authors.lastname: Morrison-Beedy
authors.forename: Michael P
authors.initials: MP
authors.lastname: Carey
authors.forename: Jeanne
authors.initials: J
authors.lastname: Kowalski
authors.forename: Xin
authors.initials: X
authors.lastname: Tu
mesh_terms: D000293:Adolescent; D016009:Chi-Square Distribution; D005240:Feasibility Studies; D005260:Female; D006126:Group Processes; D015658:HIV Infections / Q000517:prevention & control*; D006801:Humans; D010865:Pilot Projects; D040242:Risk Reduction Behavior; D012725:Sexual Behavior / Q000523:psychology; D011795:Surveys and Questionnaires; D016896:Treatment Outcome; D014505:Urban Population