Adolescents' input on the development of an HIV risk reduction intervention
Morrison-Beedy, D.; Carey, M.P.; Aronowitz, T.; Mkandawire, L.; Dyne, J.
Journal of the Association of Nurses in Aids Care Janac 13(1): 21-27
2002
ISSN/ISBN: 1055-3290 PMID: 11828857 DOI: 10.1016/s1055-3290(06)60238-0Document Number: 244708
Adolescence is a developmental period often associated with sexual debut as well as risk taking. Given these considerations, HIV prevention interventions need to become an important component of adolescent health care. This article describes the use of formative research to guide intervention refinement. To refine an HIV risk reduction intervention that has been used successfully with adults, the authors conducted focus groups with 30 adolescent females. These participants identified misconceptions regarding HIV-related information and factors that influence motivation to participate in risky behaviors. They also suggested strategies for recruitment and retention in a longitudinal study. Formative research such as this can be used to develop interventions that are gender specific and developmentally and culturally appropriate for adolescents.