HIV preventive behavior scale for Thai men who have sex with men (MSM): development and psychometric properties

Abstract

Background: There are several ways to measure HIV prevention behavior. The simplest is self-assessment. In foreign countries, many scales have been developed. However, there are only a few developed scales among MSM in Thailand and they are not up to date. The objective of this study is to investigate the psychometric features of the HIV preventative behavior measure in Thai men who have sex with men (MSM). Methods: The sample consisted of 424 Thai MSM individuals aged 25 or older who had at least one sexual encounter using any method in the previous six months. Test the sample by dividing it in half. Analysis’s construct validity via Exploratory and Confirmatory Factor analysis, reliability using Cronbach's reliability coefficient. Tests of convergent and discriminant validity based on Pearson correlation coefficients. Results: This metric consists of nine items, each comprised of two components: 1) denial and avoidance of the risk of obtaining HIV, and 2) self-protective actions before and during sexual activity. Both components of the CFA were in excellent agreement with the empirical data (χ2 = 36.56, p =.06, χ2/df = 1.46, GFI = 0.96, CFI = 0.98, AGFI = 0.94, RMR = 0.07, RMSEA = 0.05, TLI = 0.96). Cronbach's reliability coefficient is .77, and the HIV Preventive Behavior Scale was significantly linked with the AIDS risk behavior avoidance scale and the AIDS prevention scale (r = 0.21 and 0.16, p < 0.01). There was no correlation with the Thai Language Learning Attitude Scale. Conclusions: The psychometric qualities are satisfactory and can be used to identify individuals at risk for psychological interventions to enhance HIV preventive behavior among Thai MSM.