Knowledge, attitudes, intentions, and behavior concerning AIDS among adolescent in Adventist colleges in the Philippines

Abstract

The purpose of this study was to explore knowledge, attitudes, intentions, and behaviors concerning AIDS risk among adolescents attending Adventist colleges in the Philippines. The study sought to assess the extent to which these students participated in sexual activity and drug use behaviors, which placed them at risk for contracting or transmitting the human immunodeficiency virus (HIV). The theory of reasoned action (TRA) developed by Ajzen and Fishbein (1980) served as the theoretical framework for the study. Data were obtained from a total of 388 college freshman and sophomore students in seven Adventist colleges in the Philippines. The data were compared to the Hopkins and Hoop (1998) study. Major findings of the study led to the following conclusions: students who attended SDA colleges in the Philippines were not exempt from engaging in AIDS-risk behaviors such as alcohol, drugs, and unprotected sexual intercourse, which placed them at risk for unintended pregnancy, sexually transmitted diseases including AIDS, and health consequences of substance use. Students in SDA colleges in the Philippines reported similar rates of sexual intercourse (15.7% vs. 16.3%) compared to the Hopkins and Hoop study. But lower rates of all substances measured when compared to their counterparts in North America.

Out of the sample, 211 (54%) scored 76% or more on the 13 AIDS knowledge questions. Considering 7l% or more as the passing score, respondents in this study appeared to be less knowledgeable regarding AIDS, which is contrary to previous AIDS research conducted in other adolescent populations.

Three major conclusions were drawn from the study: the theory of reasoned action is a good model to predict behavior focusing on the behavioral intent. As observed, the affective domain and subjective nofins are more important in preventing AIDS-risk behaviors compared to the knowledge aspect.

Second, subjective norms (parents, friends, teachers, and other adults) tend to influence the students' intentions regarding sexual intercourse and substance use.

Third, a comprehensive approach should be taken when initiating AIDS prevention programs. There should be a conjunction between knowledge and the affective side in terms of attitudes, beliefs, values, and the spiritual dimension when considering an AIDS education program. Major recommendations in this study were: to explore areas this study has not focused on such as: gender and age differences in regard to AIDS-risk behaviors, and other simiiarities and differences between risk behaviors among different regions of the Philippines. Finally, it was recommended to incorporate a qualitative aspect in order to enhance the findings and to further contribute to the theory of reasoned action.