Computerized HIV preventive intervention for adolescents: indications of efficacy.

We tested the hypothesis that a computerized intervention would be as efficacious as an in-person, small-group intervention in reducing sexual risk behaviors. The sexual behavior of high-risk adolescents in 3 intervention conditions was examined: (1) computer based, (2) small groups, and (3) control. Adolescents in the computerized intervention were significantly less likely to engage in sexual activity and reported significantly fewer partners. For some youths, computers are a viable way to deliver prevention information and promote skill development.