Correlates of intention to use condoms among auto mechanic students

Abstract

The psychosocial factors influencing intention to use condoms were studied among a group of 69 male students of low socio-economic background attending an automobile mechanic school in the Quebec metropolitan area identified for the prevention of sexually transmitted diseases. Based on the methodology proposed by Ajzen and Fishbein (1980) the questionnaire was developed after the salient outcomes referents and perceived barriers had been elicited from 17 nonparticipating students. Direct and indirect measures of subjective norm (SN) were obtained using referent persons or groups. Perceived behavioral control was calculated based on the subjects past behavior regarding use of condoms. The mean age of the students was 19.6 +or- 3 years. The subjects had a mean intention score of 63%. 76.8% (53/69) of the students had had sexual intercourse and 75% (39/53) of the active group indicated they had used condoms at least once. In multiple regression analyses the regression of intention to use condoms on all variables yielded an adjusted R2 of 0.53 (P < .001) for the whole group (N = 69) and 0.64 (p < .001) for the sexually active students (N = 53). MANOVAs demonstrated significant differences between high (55) and low (14) intenders concerning behavioral beliefs (p < .001) normative beliefs (P < .01) and perceived barriers (P < .05). 3 variables carried significance in gauging the behavior concerning condom use in sexual intercourse: attitude toward the use of condoms perceived SN regarding the use of condoms and perceived barriers to the use of condoms. It seemed futile to exhort the subjects about the risk of an STD and/or pregnancy if condom use was avoided. These results suggest that friends parents physicians and pharmacists could participate in preventive education along with media campaigns using the stereotype of a sexual partner to impart the relevant message to the students.