Response to HIV/AIDS Prevention Messages: Based on the Extended Parallel Process Model, among Bahir Dar University Students, North West
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Date
2004-06
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Addis Abeba Universty
Abstract
The Extended Parallel Process Model (EPPM) provides useful information to
understand the health communication messages gap. The survey was conducted to
assess perception level of the risk communication variables and to examine whether the
risk communication variables are predictors to HIV/AIDS prevention practices. A
cross-sectional study was conducted based on EPPM in December 2003 among Bahir
Dar University students. Self-administrative questionnaire prepared in English was
used to collect data. Data analysis and interpreted was done using appropriate statistical
methods.
In this study 456-second year and above students participated. The result showed that
166(34.6%) of the students, more males than females (P<0.001) had ever had sexual
intercourse. Condom use among those who had sex in 12 months prior to the survey
was about 52%. A belief of personal susceptibility was very low particularly for
females (1.8±1.05), (P<0.001) perceived severity was moderately high (3.8±1.32) and
the perception of efficacy was high for abstinence (4.5±0.97) and seems undecided for
condom (2.9±1.09). Females strongly agreed (4.2± 1.15) (P<0.001) than males
(3.7±1.28) that they could able to be abstinent. The study participants reported low selfefficacy
regarding condom use. Male students moderately agreed (3.5 ±1.16; P<0.001)
than females (2.6±1.25) for self-efficacy of condom use). They had extremely positive
attitude towards abstinence (4.5 ± 0.83) good for monogamy (4.0 ± 1.06) and fair
attitude (3.1±1.15) towards condom use. Correlation and regression analysis of risk
communication and outcome variables showed that perceived response-efficacy, selfefficacy
towards condom and perception of susceptibility were predictors for condom
use and self-efficacy was predictor for being abstinent. Credible source of information
were cited as persons living with HIV/AIDS, religious persons and health personnel.
Most important type of messages were with real experience and preferred way of
learning was reported as religious affiliated, peer education and discussion with
families.
This study revealed that among health communication variables self-efficacy is strong
predictor and response-efficacy, and perceived susceptibility are moderate predictors
particularly for condom use. Where as perception of severity of disease was not related
with response behaviors. Therefore, models/theory needs to be used to assess, design,
develop and promote health intervention messages.
Key words perception of threat, susceptibility, severity, efficacy, response- efficacy,
self-efficacy, no response, danger control fear control
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Keywords
perception of threat, susceptibility, severity, efficacy, response- efficacy, self-efficacy, no response, danger control fear control