CHANGING BEHAVIOUR 201An information, motivation and behavioural skills
interventionIn an intervention designed to reduce the risk of HIV infection, Fisher et al.(1994)
included intervention components to address deficits in information, motivation and
behavioural skills identified in previous elicitation research among US college
students. Some of the targets they identified and the methods they used to
achieve them are considered below.Information component
A slide show followed by a large group discussion presented and consolidated
information on HIV transmission and prevention, including the risk from different
sexual behaviours, the effectiveness of condoms, where to buy condoms near
campus, safer sex decision-making rules, HIV testing and facts and myths about
HIV/AIDS.Motivation component
Small group discussions led by a peer educator were followed by large group
discussions led by a professional health educator. These incorporated a video
narrated by people who were HIV positive. This was designed to provide
persuasive arguments targeting key cognitions including perceptions of personal
susceptibility to HIV and attitudes and subjective norms relating to condom use.
Which of the five components in Fishbein’s model of motivational determinants
were targeted here?Behavioural skills component
Negotiation self-efficacy was enhanced using peer-led role plays demonstrating
safer sex communication. Students were encouraged by educators to practise
safer sexual behaviours (e.g. condom handling skills and negotiation role playing)
at home. Perceived effectiveness of condom use and self-efficacy in relation to
condom use were bolstered by using a video in which peers modelled correct
handling and use. In addition, group discussions were used to identify potential
problems and reinforce newly learned negotiation skills.
When you finish reading this chapter return to this focus box and think about
other change techniques that could have been included in an intervention of
this kind.FOCUS 9.1