Elicitation of cognitions related to HIV risk behaviors in persons with mental illnesses: implications for prevention.
OBJECTIVE
An important step in research using the Theory of Reasoned Action and Theory of Planned Behavior (TRA/TPB) is conducting an elicitation process to identify topic and population specific cognitions. This study explored HIV risk behaviors in persons with mental illnesses and introduces findings from focus groups conducted during the development phase of an HIV primary and secondary prevention intervention study.


METHODS
Researchers held four focus groups with persons with mental illnesses focused on HIV risks and condom use.


RESULTS
Participants discussed sexual side effects of psychotropic medications as a potential cause of both medication non-adherence and HIV risk behaviors. The intersection of these two issues is specific to this population.


CONCLUSIONS
We conclude with the recommendation that HIV primary and secondary prevention intervention for persons with mental illnesses must incorporate the promotion of healthy sexuality, including attention to sexual side effects of psychotropic medications.
Tennille
Julie
J
University of Pennsylvania, Center for Mental Health Po.licy and Services Research-Psychiatry, School of Social Policy and Practice, Philadelphia, PA 19104, USA. julie.tennille@gmail.com
Solomon
Phyllis
P
Fishbein
Martin
M
Blank
Michael
M
D000328:Adult; D001364:Awareness; D017280:Condoms / Q000706:statistics & numerical data; D003469:Culture; D005260:Female; D017144:Focus Groups; D015658:HIV Infections / Q000517:prevention & control* / Q000523:psychology / Q000635:transmission; D006266:Health Education / Q000379:methods*; D007722:Health Knowledge, Attitudes, Practice; D006801:Humans; D008297:Male; D008875:Middle Aged; D011618:Psychotic Disorders / Q000523:psychology / Q000534:rehabilitation*; D011619:Psychotropic Drugs / Q000009:adverse effects / Q000627:therapeutic use; D012735:Sexual Dysfunction, Physiological / Q000139:chemically induced / Q000523:psychology; D012749:Sexually Transmitted Diseases / Q000517:prevention & control / Q000523:psychology / Q000635:transmission; D047568:Unsafe Sex / Q000523:psychology
D011619:Psychotropic Drugs