The Impact of Knowledge,Norms,and Self-Efficacy on Intentions to Engage in AIDS-Preventive Behaviors among Young Incarcerated African American Males

Abstract

Young incarcerated African American males are at high riskfor contracting the human immunodeficiency virus (HIV). The purposes of this study were to (a) describe the levels ofHIlVknowledge, norms regarding condom use, self-efficacy, and intentions to engage in HlV-preventive behaviors in a sample of young incarcerated African American males; and (b) assess the relationships between knowledge, norms, self-efficacy, and behavioral intent. Data were collected during an AIDS educational session from 52 African American males 17 to 22 years of age. The results indicated that this sample had a moderate level ofAIDS knowledge overalL However, knowledge regarding transmission myths was relatively low. This sample evidencedfairly high self-efficacy regarding HIVprevention and showed moderate intentions to engage in HIV-preventive behaviors. The data also indicated that both peer and subjective norms support condom use.

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