Perception of HIV/AIDS and socio-cognitive determinants of safe sex practices among college students in the United States of America

Abstract

This study applies the information-motivation-behavioral skills (IMB) model to explore the perception of 
HIV/AIDS among students attending a historically black college and university (HBCU) and the socio-cognitive 
factors that influence safe sex practices among these students. A convenient sample of college students 
attending a HBCU in the South-eastern United States was surveyed. Exploratory factor analysis generated a 
seven-dimensional final solution structure from the 41-item survey instrument. Frequency distribution of the 
students’ HIV prevention information, HIV prevention motivation and AIDS prevention behavioral skills latent 
constructs was estimated. Multiple regression analysis of predictive influence of the constructs on the college 
students’ willingness to practice safe sex was performed. The study found that most of the students surveyed 
are knowledgeable about HIV/AIDS and HIV/AIDS transmission modes, understanding of the risk behavior 
associated with HIV/AIDS and HIV/AIDS prevention behavior, willing to associate with HIV infected persons, 
interested in participating in HIV/AIDS education. This finding is consistent with previous research on college 
students’ socio-cognitive perception of HIV/AIDS. However, regression analysis showed that academic class, 
willingness to associate with HIV/AID infected person (stigmatization), interest in HIV/AIDS education, 
understanding of HIV/AIDS risk behaviors and knowledge of HIV/AIDS transmission modes are significant 
predictors of the HBCU students’ willingness (or intention) to practice safe sex.