Linking psychosocial factors to young South Africans’ intention to use condoms : the moderating role of HIV/AIDS information

Abstract

Purpose: The present study examined the constructs of the theory of planned behaviour regarding their predictability of intentions to use a condom among Xhosa-speaking adolescents in Eastern Cape, South Africa, using HIV/AIDS information as a moderator. Design: Quantitative data were collected from 196 adolescents in Eastern Cape, South Africa. A regression analysis was used to test the hypotheses. Results: A regression analysis showed that attitude and perceived behavioural control were significantly related to the intention to use a condom, but subjective norm was not. However, due to the moderating effect of HIV/AIDS information, attitude, perceived behavioural control and subjective norm predicted intention to use a condom. Conclusion: The findings show that HIV/AIDS information plays an important role in increasing the effect of the theory of planned behaviour on intention to use a condom. Thus, more emphasis should be on beliefs about the adverse effects of condom use, the ability to negotiate condom use, and the importance of other significant others in increasing awareness about HIV/AIDS in order to increase intention to use a condom.