AIDS risk knowledge, attitudes, and behavioral intentions among multi-ethnic adolescents

The purpose of this study was to determine how much young adolescents know about AIDS and AIDS risk and to identify areas of confusion that might serve as important targets of educational intervention. A multiethnic (43% white, 33% black, 18% Latino) sample of 303 seventh-grade students (48% male) in 3 schools in the greater New York area completed questionnaires assessing knowledge, attitudes, and behavioral intentions concerning AIDS and AIDS risk. Consistent with previous studies with older adolescents, the major finding in this study was that young adolescents had a high degree of knowledge concerning AIDS and AIDS risk. There were 2 areas of confusion concerning AIDS risk. Specifically, 31% of adolescents did not correctly identify "not having sex" as the most effective way of preventing AIDS, and 33% believed that AIDS could be spread through casual contact. Findings are discussed in terms of their implications for prevention.