Health beliefs and teenage condom use: A prospective study

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Abstract
Results from a longitudinal survey of sexual behaviour and HIV-relevant cognitions amongst 258 sexually-active adolescents are reported. Demographic characteristics, previous sexual experience, prior condom use, beliefs specified by the health belief model (HBM), peer norms regarding condom use and condom use intentions were measured using a confidential postal questionnaire. Measures of sexual behaviour and condom use consistency were included in a follow-up questionnaire one year later. A discriminant analysis revealed that demographic and HBM measures did not predict reported sexual activity over the study year. Path analysis revealed that intentions and HBM measures did not account for significant proportions of variance in consistency of condom use or mediate the effects of prior sexual experience or demographic measures. Those reporting more frequent sexual intercourse were less likely to use condoms consistently while those who had used condoms previously reported more consistent use. Gender differences suggested that young women's good intentions were less likely to be translated into subsequent, consistent condom use. Theoretical and applied implications are considered.