The use of behavior science theory in HIV/STD prevention has been recommended as a strategy to increase overall intervention effectiveness. An implicit assumption is that use of an entire theory is needed for best results. Peer-reviewed HIV/STD behavioral interventions were reviewed to determine whether formal behavioral theories were used to guide them, and the extent to which entire theories or models were utilized. Criteria for review included: identification of target population, location where intervention occurred, theories, models, or behavioral determinants used to guide or implement interventions, and training received by staff. Over 700 articles published between 1994-1999 were intially identified. After further review, 298 articles were identified which met the above criteria, and of these, 166 contained sufficient information about the intervention and theoretical components. This information was entered in a matrix for analysis. Results of the literature review indicated that most published interventions did not utilize any one theory completely, but rather, pieces of multiple theories, or one or more behavioral determinants. Moreover, theoretical considerations were less likely to be based on the application of a particular theory to an intervention or population, but more likely on an identified community problem, population characteristics, and/or factors that impacted risk-taking behaviors. These approaches have generally been considered to be acceptable public health practice. The authors recommend that more flexible guidelines for the application of behavior theory will likely address practice realities and result in increased intervention effectiveness, as evidenced in this review.
Learning Objectives: Participants will learn the results of an exhaustive literature review project conducted to determine the extent to which formal behavior science theories are incorporated into community public health interventions and studies to elucidate the determinants of behavior. This experience will highlight the fact that upon review it appears that the application of all the components of any one behavioral theory is a rare occurrence, and tends to appear only in interventions designed to specifically test a particular theory. Attention will also be drawn to the apparent lack of sustainability inherent in most published interventions. At the conclusion of the session participants will be able to: 1. Recognize the most commonly applied theoretical constructs. 2. Evaluate the extent to which studies and interventions utilize formal behavioral science theory. 3. Develop intervention plans that incorporate multiple theoretical perspectives to best serve the needs of the population. 4. Assess the levels of sustainability of interventions following the completion of the formal intervention work conducted by academic institutions and staff
Keywords: Behavioral Research, Theory
Presenting author's disclosure statement:
Organization/institution whose products or services will be discussed: None
I do not have any significant financial interest/arrangement or affiliation with any organization/institution whose products or services are being discussed in this session.