A theory-based approach to understanding condom errors and problems reported by men attending an STI clinic.
We employed the information-motivation-behavioral skills (IMB) model to guide an investigation of correlates for correct condom use among 278 adult (18-35 years old) male clients attending a sexually transmitted infection (STI) clinic. An anonymous questionnaire aided by a CD-recording of the questions was administered. Linear Structural Relations Program was used to conduct path analyses of the hypothesized IMB model. Parameter estimates showed that while information did not directly affect behavioral skills, it did have a direct (negative) effect on condom use errors. Motivation had a significant direct (positive) effect on behavioral skills and a significant indirect (positive) effect on condom use errors through behavioral skills. Behavioral skills had a direct (negative) effect on condom use errors. Among men attending a public STI clinic, these findings suggest brief, clinic-based, safer sex programs for men who have sex with women should incorporate activities to convey correct condom use information, instill motivation to use condoms correctly, and directly enhance men's behavioral skills for correct use of condoms.
Crosby
Richard A
RA
College of Public Health, University of Kentucky, 121 Washington Avenue, Suite 111C, Lexington, KY 40506-0003, USA. crosby@uky.edu
Salazar
Laura F
LF
Yarber
William L
WL
Sanders
Stephanie A
SA
Graham
Cynthia A
CA
Head
Sara
S
Arno
Janet N
JN
D000293:Adolescent; D000328:Adult; D000554:Ambulatory Care Facilities / Q000706:statistics & numerical data; D003071:Cognition; D017280:Condoms / Q000706:statistics & numerical data*; D015438:Health Behavior; D006801:Humans; D008297:Male; D010349:Patient Compliance / Q000706:statistics & numerical data; D011582:Psychological Theory; D012749:Sexually Transmitted Diseases / Q000188:drug therapy* / Q000453:epidemiology*; D011795:Surveys and Questionnaires