Promoting condom-related behaviours in a broad population: Evaluation of a LifeGuide-based intervention

Authors

  • Jude Hancock Coventry University

DOI:

https://doi.org/10.18552/aprj.v1i1.127

Keywords:

Health psychology, Intervention, Safer sex, LifeGuide

Abstract

Objective. The present study aims to evaluate the use of LifeGuide to deliver an intervention promoting the performance of three condom-related behaviours in a broad population using persuasive messages.

Design. A 3 (intervention: control vs. positively-framed message vs. negatively-framed message) x 3 (time: pre-intervention, post-intervention, three-month follow-up) randomized controlled design was used to compare changes in behaviour and intention.

Methods. An online LifeGuide-based intervention was completed by 439 individuals aged between 13 and 85 years of age (females, n = 310, M age = 30.80, SD = 12.75). Pre-intervention, extended Theory of Planned Behaviour (TPB) psychological measures and self-report condom-related behaviour were completed. Immediately post-intervention, TPB measures were completed again. Three months later, all pre-intervention measures were completed.

Results. Intention to treat MANOVA analysis showed a main effect of time on the TPB measures (F(36, 400) = 3.92, p = <.001, hp2 = .26), but this did not differ by condition (F(36, 836) = .70, p = .91, hp2 = .03). Performance of condom-related behaviours did not significantly increase over time (F(3, 433) = 1.28, p = .28, hp2 = .01).

Conclusion. An online safer sex intervention aimed at a broad population can increase intentions to carry and use condoms, which may serve a protective function in the future. However, LifeGuide may not be the best platform for delivering safer sex interventions, due to lack of anonymity for users.

Author Biography

Jude Hancock, Coventry University

Applied Research Centre in Health and Lifestyle Interventions

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Published

2014-01-06

Issue

Vol. 1 No. 1 (2014): Inaugural Issue

Section

Original Research Articles

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