Self-Efficacy Predictors of Consistent Condom Use among an Ethnically and Racially Diverse Sample of Young Adults

Abstract

Background: Condom use can decrease the likelihood of acquiring STIs. Condoms are more efficacious when used consistently and correctly. However, low percentages of consistent condom use have been reported by adults and young adults, with consistent condom use decreasing with age. Furthermore, there are racial/ethnic differences in both condom use and STI incidence. Self-efficacy has been found to be positively related to condom use, and various domains of self-efficacy have been studied in previous research. Purpose: The present study explored potential sub-types of self-efficacy related to consistent condom use among a racially/ethnically diverse sample of young adults; and examined these domains as predictors of consistent condom use. Methods: A racially and ethnically diverse sample of 1240 sexually active young adults attending a minority-serving institution were surveyed on their self-efficacy beliefs about condom use and sexual behavior. Principal component analysis was used to extract relevant components related to self-efficacy. Blocked logistic regression was then applied to the component items in order to determine their predictive value and odds of consistent condom use, using race/ethnicity as a moderator. Results: Principal component analysis extracted a three-factor solution, identifying the following self-efficacy domains: Experiential Self-efficacy, Self-efficacy for Partner Communication, and Barrier Self-efficacy. Regarding the blocked logistic regression analysis, various racial/ethnic interactions emerged. For instance, Hispanic and African American young adults were seven and five times more likely, respectively, than White young adults (reference group) to use condoms consistently if they were able to stop and acquire a condom when aroused (Experiential Self-Efficacy). Asian/Pacific Islanders and African Americans who believed it was too much trouble to carry a condom (Barrier Self-Efficacy) were significantly less likely to be consistent condom users. Other logistic relationships are discussed. Discussion: The results underscore the need for interdisciplinary approaches regarding campus health integration in promoting consistent condom use and reducing access barriers for minority young adults, who suffer greater disparity of HIV risk and STI transmission.