Correlates of condom use among chinese college students in hunan province.

A cross-sectional survey was conducted to test an integrated model of condom use with a sample of 490 sexually active Chinese college students. A number of variables in the integrated model were predictors of condom use, explaining 33.4% of the variance in use. Partner communication was the strongest predictors (β = .317, SE = .038, p < .001). Self-efficacy (β = .252, SE = .076, p < .001), positive attitudes (β = .150, SE = .060, p < .001), and social norms (β = .207, SE = .080, p < .001) were also significant predictors of condom use. Additionally, peer communication marginally significantly predicted condom use (β = .089, SE = .039, p = .055). This study provides evidence of the utility of the theories of reasoned action and planned behavior as an effective underlying theoretical framework for HIV prevention and safe sex intervention programs in a non-Western culture. The study also provides evidence that communication with sexual partners about condom use should be one of the most important factors to be considered in the development of HIV prevention and safer sex education programs for Chinese youth.