HIV/AIDS Knowledge and Self-Efficacy Among Late Adolescents in Nepal

Abstract

The purpose of this study was to explore HIV/AIDS knowledge and self-efficacy for limiting sexual risk behavior in Nepalese late adolescents attending college. A convenience sample of 229 baccalaureate college students completed three instruments: demographic, HIV/AIDS knowledge questions and the self-efficacy for limiting sexual risk behavior questions. The findings of this study showed that Nepalese youth had moderate HIV/AIDS knowledge and a moderate level of self-efficacy. However, they lacked knowledge in certain aspects of HIV transmission. HIV/AIDS knowledge was strongly correlated with self-efficacy for limiting sexual risk behavior. There was no statistical difference in HIV/AIDS knowledge and self-efficacy by gender. However, when each self-efficacy item was analyzed by gender, there were significant differences in a few items by gender. ANOVA analysis showed no significant differences on HIV/AIDS knowledge and self-efficacy by the level of education. The findings of this study indicate that there is a need for developing school-based and/or community-based programs that will increase HIV/AIDS awareness among youth and help them develop decision making and communication skills. It is also important to look at the school and college curricula and integrate more HIV/AIDS information in the curriculum.