title: The effects of a systematically developed photo-novella on knowledge, attitudes, communication and behavioural intentions with respect to sexually transmitted infections among secondary school learners in South Africa.
abstract: A pre-post test follow-up design was used to test the effects of a systematically developed photo-novella (Laduma) on knowledge, attitudes, communication and behavioural intentions with respect to sexually transmitted infections, after a single reading by 1168 secondary school learners in South Africa. The reading resulted in an increase in knowledge on the spread of sexually transmitted infections (STIs), change in attitude to condom use and towards people with STIs and/or HIV/AIDS, as well as increased intention to practice safe sex. Laduma did not influence communication about sexually transmitted infections and reported sexual behaviour and condom use. While print media proved to be an effective strategy to reach large numbers of youth and prepare them for adequate preventive behaviours, the study also identified the need to combine print media with other planned theory-based interventions that build confidence and skills to initiate the preventive behaviour.
authors.affiliation: Medical Research Council, Cape Town, South Africa. shegs.james@mrc.ac.za
authors.forename: Shamagonam
authors.initials: S
authors.lastname: James
authors.forename: Priscilla S
authors.initials: PS
authors.lastname: Reddy
authors.forename: Robert A C
authors.initials: RA
authors.lastname: Ruiter
authors.forename: Myra
authors.initials: M
authors.lastname: Taylor
authors.forename: Champaklal C
authors.initials: CC
authors.lastname: Jinabhai
authors.forename: Pepijn
authors.initials: P
authors.lastname: Van Empelen
authors.forename: Bart
authors.initials: B
authors.lastname: Van den Borne
mesh_terms: D000293:Adolescent; D000294:Adolescent Behavior; D000328:Adult; D001878:Books, Illustrated; D003142:Communication; D005260:Female; D007722:Health Knowledge, Attitudes, Practice; D006293:Health Promotion / Q000379:methods; D006801:Humans; D008297:Male; D012725:Sexual Behavior; D012749:Sexually Transmitted Diseases / Q000517:prevention & control*; D013019:South Africa; D011795:Surveys and Questionnaires