Sexual transmission-risk behaviour among HIV-positive persons: a multisite study using social action theory

Area of Science:

• Public Health
• Behavioral Science
• Epidemiology

Background:

• HIV transmission is complex, influenced by multiple factors.
• Social Action Theory offers a framework to understand self-regulation of behaviors like condom use.
• Condom use is examined within social interactions and interdependence.

Purpose of the Study:

• To explore and describe sexual risk behaviors among adults living with HIV/AIDS.
• To apply Social Action Theory as a framework for analyzing these behaviors.
• To identify factors associated with sexual risk behaviors in this population.

Main Methods:

• A cross-sectional survey design was employed.
• A self-report questionnaire was administered to adults living with HIV/AIDS.
• Participants were recruited from clinics, service organizations, and through outreach between 2010-2011.

Main Results:

• Multiple sex partners and inconsistent condom use were associated with being male, younger age, higher education, and substance use frequency.
• Men who have sex with men acquiring HIV were more likely to report these behaviors.
• Lower self-efficacy for condom use correlated with multiple partners and inconsistent condom use.

Conclusions:

• Social Action Theory effectively organized data from an international sample of HIV-positive individuals.
• Interventions targeting younger, HIV-positive men who have sex with men are recommended.
• Strengthening condom use self-efficacy and reducing substance use frequency may lower HIV transmission risk.