Responses to the aids epidemic among homosexually active men: Factors associated with preventive behavior

Abstract

This study explored factors that are related to AIDS preventive behavior in 201 asymptomatic homosexual and bisexual men seen at a community health center. The analysis concentrated on two dependent variables: the effort made to reduce high risk behavior, and the number of anogenital partners (subject receptive) during the previous 6 months. Independent variables included: perceptions of the threat of AIDS (susceptibility and severity), perceived efficacy of clinical interventions, perceived benefit of behavior change, beliefs of friends and lovers, knowledge of the HIV antibody test (what it is and its interpretation), knowledge of risk factors for AIDS, involvement in informational activities, direct experience with AIDS, age, educational level, and other preventive behaviors. Multiple regression modelling suggested that greater reported behavioral effect was associated with greater perceived susceptibility to and severity of AIDS, and with involvement in informational activities, and beliefs of friends and lovers. Fewer anogenital partners (subject receptive) were significantly associated only with fewer lifetime partners and older age. Knowledge of high risk behavior was not associated with either dependent variable. These results suggest an important role for educational and counseling interventions designed to modify critical perceptions, and underscore the need for further longitudinal modelling of behavior change.