An evaluation of performance-arts based HIV-prevention events in London with 13- 16-year-olds.
OBJECTIVE
The London borough of Newham is ethnically diverse and is one of the poorest regions in the UK. Rates of teenage pregnancy, sexually transmitted infections (STIs) and HIV are high compared to the rest of the country. One strand of the local school-based HIV-prevention programme for young people utilizes performance arts as a tool for HIV education and prevention. This study evaluated HIV knowledge, confidence and intention to use a condom in two groups of 13- 16-year-olds who had participated in performance-based events.


METHODS
Group 1 (n = 14) participated in a six-week programme of performance arts-based HIV education and prevention workshops, which culminated in a theatre-based performance. Group 2 (n = 65) were audience members who attended the performance. Participants completed a short questionnaire containing both qualitative and quantitative items.


RESULTS
Qualitative data suggested that the participants had learned about condoms and their efficacy in preventing acquisition of HIV and sexually transmitted diseases. Quantitative results indicated that after participation in the events, respondents had more information about HIV and condom use; were more confident that they could insist on condom use with partners; and planned to use condoms in the future. There was a statistically significant difference between Groups 1 and 2 but because of the small numbers in Group 1 this result should be interpreted cautiously.


CONCLUSIONS
Performance-based HIV-prevention activities may be a useful way to deliver HIV-prevention messages to young people. This evaluation will form the basis of a more systematic and robust evaluation of future events.
Newham Psychological Services, 10 Vicarage Lane, London E15 4ES, UK. Tomas.campbell@newhampct.nhs.uk
Tomás
T
Campbell
Michael
M
Bath
Rachel
R
Bradbear
Justine
J
Cottle
Neil
N
Parrett
D000293:Adolescent; D001154:Art; D017280:Condoms / Q000706:statistics & numerical data; D005006:Ethnicity; D005260:Female; D015658:HIV Infections / Q000517:prevention & control*; D007722:Health Knowledge, Attitudes, Practice; D006801:Humans; D008131:London; D008297:Male; D015980:Public Health Practice; D012572:School Health Services / Q000458:organization & administration*