How do social norms impact HIV sexual risk behavior in HIV-positive men who have sex with men?: multiple mediator effects

J Health Psychol. 2009 Sep;14(6):761-70. doi: 10.1177/1359105309338976.

Abstract

This study examines mediation of the association between social norms and unsafe sexual behavior. Self-report data were collected from 675 HIV-infected men enrolled in a study exploring interventions for HIV risk behavior. Unsafe sex included any unprotected anal sex with HIV-negative or HIV status unknown partners in the last three months. Norms for condom use indirectly influenced unsafe sex through condom self-efficacy and/or safer sex intentions. Additionally, sexual behavior discontrol influenced unsafe sex regardless of other individual or social factors. Our results suggest that interventions consider the combined effects of condom self-efficacy, safer sex intentions and sexual behavior control.

Publication types

  • Research Support, N.I.H., Extramural

MeSH terms

  • Adolescent
  • Adult
  • Aged
  • HIV Infections / prevention & control*
  • HIV Seropositivity*
  • Homosexuality, Male*
  • Humans
  • Male
  • Middle Aged
  • Risk-Taking*
  • Self Efficacy
  • Social Control, Informal*
  • United States
  • Unsafe Sex
  • Young Adult