Determinants of female and male condom use among immigrant women of Central American descent

AIDS Behav. 2003 Jun;7(2):163-74. doi: 10.1023/a:1023998308892.

Abstract

This study was designed to determine factors that influence female and male condom use among Central American women, applying the theory of planned behavior. A cross-sectional design was employed and a sample of 175 Central American women, 18-50 years old, was recruited from a community-based clinic in Los Angeles County. Participants in this study were interviewed face-to-face. Attitude, subjective norm, and perceived behavioral control explained 41% and 45% of the variation in the intention to use male and female condoms, respectively. Respondents' friends and mothers influenced their subjective norms. Beliefs regarding sexual sensation and sexually transmitted infection/pregnancy prevention affected respondents' attitudes toward condoms. Trust issues were also a major factor affecting attitudes toward female condoms. Condom use and sex negotiation skills predicted control over condoms. Results of this study can be used to design HIV/AIDS prevention programs that help women feel control over condom use and their sexual behavior.

MeSH terms

  • Adolescent
  • Adult
  • Attitude
  • Central America / ethnology
  • Condoms*
  • Cross-Sectional Studies
  • Cultural Characteristics
  • Female
  • HIV Infections / prevention & control*
  • Humans
  • Male
  • Middle Aged
  • Negotiating
  • Sexual Behavior*
  • Trust