G Remafedi1. 1. Department of Pediatrics, University of Minnesota, Minneapolis 55455.
Abstract
PURPOSE: To examine short-term changes in HIV knowledge, beliefs, and behaviors among gay and bisexual adolescents, 139 gay and bisexual male adolescents (13-21 years of age) completed interviews and self-administered surveys of HIV-related knowledge, attitudes, and behaviors during an initial assessment (Time 1) and 3-6 months after intervention (Time 2). METHODS: The intervention included individualized HIV/AIDS risk assessment and risk reduction counseling, peer education, and referrals to needed services. Cross-sectional (group) and individual cognitive and behavioral changes were examined; adolescents who reported unprotected anal intercourse and/or injecting drug use after interventions were compared to those who did not. RESULTS: Compared to Time 1, 60% fewer subjects at Time 2 reported unprotected anal intercourse with recent partners. Subjects also reported less frequent anal intercourse and more consistent use of condoms during follow-up. Substance abuse severity scores and use of amphetamines and amyl nitrite declined. One-quarter of subjects reported ongoing high-risk behaviors associated with multiple partners, frequent anal intercourse, completion of education, and relative numbers of gay friends. CONCLUSIONS: Compliance with HIV risk reduction improved over time. Constructive change most often involved the practices of anal intercourse and, to a lesser extent, oral sex. Ongoing risk-taking behavior may reflect serious psychosocial problems.
PURPOSE: To examine short-term changes in HIV knowledge, beliefs, and behaviors among gay and bisexual adolescents, 139 gay and bisexual male adolescents (13-21 years of age) completed interviews and self-administered surveys of HIV-related knowledge, attitudes, and behaviors during an initial assessment (Time 1) and 3-6 months after intervention (Time 2). METHODS: The intervention included individualized HIV/AIDS risk assessment and risk reduction counseling, peer education, and referrals to needed services. Cross-sectional (group) and individual cognitive and behavioral changes were examined; adolescents who reported unprotected anal intercourse and/or injecting drug use after interventions were compared to those who did not. RESULTS: Compared to Time 1, 60% fewer subjects at Time 2 reported unprotected anal intercourse with recent partners. Subjects also reported less frequent anal intercourse and more consistent use of condoms during follow-up. Substance abuse severity scores and use of amphetamines and amyl nitrite declined. One-quarter of subjects reported ongoing high-risk behaviors associated with multiple partners, frequent anal intercourse, completion of education, and relative numbers of gay friends. CONCLUSIONS: Compliance with HIV risk reduction improved over time. Constructive change most often involved the practices of anal intercourse and, to a lesser extent, oral sex. Ongoing risk-taking behavior may reflect serious psychosocial problems.