The use of condoms among HIV-positive men, stigmatization, and the Health Action Process Approach

Abstract

Background: The goal of the study was to test the associations between the frequency of condom use among people living with HIV, the cognitions included in the Health Action Process Approach (HAPA), and the aspects of stigma of living with HIV (negative self-image, disclosure-related stigma, public attitudes stigma, and personalized stigma). Methods: A total of 102 HIV-positive men, recruited in Centre for Prophylaxis and Treatment of Infectious Diseases and Drug Addiction (Poland) participated in the study. The mean age was 37.6 years (SD = 9.35). Findings: Across the HAPA constructs, outcome expectancies were the strongest correlates of the frequency of condoms use in anal contact in stable relationships. Regarding stigma dimensions, lower levels of disclosure-related stigma were associated with more frequent use of condoms in anal intercourses during sex with casual partners. Discussion: This study points to the role of condom use-related outcome expectancies, referring to protection from sexually transmitted infections and effects on sexual satisfaction.