Preliminary communication
https://doi.org/10.5559/di.20.3.08
Construction and Validation of a Multidimensional Barriers to Condom Use Scale
Vanesa BENKOVIĆ
orcid.org/0000-0003-0399-8008
; Croatian Society for Pharmacoeconomics and Health Economics, Zagreb
Aleksandar ŠTULHOFER
; Faculty of Humanities and Social Sciences, Zagreb
Valerio BAĆAK
; Faculty of Humanities and Social Sciences, Zagreb
Abstract
This paper presents the development and validation of a
composite measure of barriers to male condom use. The scale
construction and validation was carried out using an online
sample of individuals, mostly college students, aged 18-30
(n=754). Principal component analysis (PCA) suggested a
5-dimensional structure of the Barriers to Condom Use Scale,
consisting of the following components: (1) problems with
negotiating condom use and partner’s resistance to condom use;
(2) anti-sexual aspects of condom use; (3) normative issues; (4)
condom self-efficacy issues and (5) difficulties with purchasing
condoms and carrying them around. Only minor differences in
the overall structure were found when PCA was carried out
separately for female and male participants. Confirmatory factor
analysis provided support for the 5-component structure of the
new scale. Reliability of the scale (k=27) and its components was
acceptable in both male and female subsamples. The scale was
characterized by satisfactory construct validity. The new measure
of barriers to condom use seems a useful tool for the analysis of
inconsistent condom use, particularly among young people. It
holds a potential of providing insights instrumental for HIV and
STI prevention and intervention programs.
Keywords
condoms; barriers to condom use; scale validation; young people; responsible sexual behavior
Hrčak ID:
72455
URI
Publication date:
10.10.2011.
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