Adolescent gender differences in HIV-related sexual risk acts, social-cognitive factors and behavioral skills

Variations in perceived HIV risk, peer and partner social norms regarding safe sex, self-efficacy, outcome expectancies, and risk-reduction skills (condom use competence and safe sex negotiation) based on gender and sexual risk level were assessed among 132 heterosexual, sexually active, inner city adolescents. Lower sexual risk status was significantly associated with positive partner norms toward safer sex and with favorable partner reaction outcome expectancies. Interaction effects between gender and sexual risk level were found. Outcome expectancies related to approval from others for safer sex were lowest for females in the low-risk group and for males in the high-risk group. Females perceived peers as more positive about safer sex practices, while males perceived sexual partners as more positive. Additionally, females had higher self-efficacy for making condom use enjoyable and planning to avoid risk situations, but were less comfortable than males when demonstrating condom skills. Adolescents' HIV prevention programs must be tailored for gender and risk status.