Trends in heterosexual tertiary students' knowledge of HIV and intentions to avoid people who might have HIV

This study investigated trends in HIV knowledge and endorsement of social avoidance of people who might be infected with HIV. The respondents (n = 7387) were self-identified heterosexual students. Most of them (n = 6500) were first-year behavioural or biological sciences students from annual surveys (1988-1995) at Macquarie University. The others (n = 887) were from four biennial (1987-1993) random samples of all students below 30 years of age at the University of Sydney. Students at both campuses completed self-administered questionnaires. Nine items were used to compute Partner Distinction Scale scores which indicated whether students had accurate knowledge that HIV may be transmitted through specific sexual practices with either casual or regular partners. Eleven items contributed to a Social Avoidance Scale. At Macquarie, male students had more accurate knowledge than female students, [F(1, 6024) = 9.20, p < 0.003], but at Sydney there were no significant sex differences in knowledge. Male students endorsed greater social avoidance at both Macquarie, [F(1, 6421) = 195.57, p < 0.00005], and Sydney, [F(1, 881) = 32.41, p < 0.00005]. Multiple linear regression on social avoidance revealed a significant reduction in social avoidance over time, with more rapid decrease among male students. Whereas less social avoidance was partly attributable to better knowledge over time, it is concluded that the improved social climate towards those most affected by HIV is mainly due to a shift in cultural norms.