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HIV prevention among Zambian adolescents: developing a value utilization/norm change model
D A Feldman1, P O'Hara, K S Baboo
1D. A. Feldman and Associates, Hollywood, FL 33019, USA.
Social Science & Medicine (1982)
|February 1, 1997
Summary
Peer-led interventions can reduce HIV risk in adolescents. A study in Zambia found that understanding cultural values and social norms is key to developing effective HIV prevention strategies for young people.
Area of Science:
- Public Health
- Sociology
- Adolescent Health
Background:
- Adolescents in urban Zambia face significant HIV infection risks.
- Existing HIV prevention strategies may not adequately address cultural contexts.
Purpose of the Study:
- To inform the design of a future peer-led intervention to reduce HIV risk among Zambian adolescents.
- To explore the cultural background and sexual behaviors of adolescents in urban Zambia.
Main Methods:
- Ethnographic data collection and sexual behavior surveys from 276 adolescents (1992-1993).
- Focus groups were conducted to gather qualitative insights.
- A brief risk reduction workshop was piloted.
Main Results:
- Most adolescents (average age 17) are sexually active, with low condom use.
- Condoms are often perceived as ineffective, and safer sex practices are not widely discussed.
- Transactional sex is common, particularly among out-of-school females engaging in high-risk behaviors.
Conclusions:
- Adolescent core values and social norms significantly influence behavior change.
- A Value Utilization/Norm Change (VUNC) model can leverage these values for effective HIV risk reduction interventions.