Description
Despite decades of research, there is still no known cure for HIV/AIDS. However, preventative safer sex behaviors are the most viable remedy to curb the spread of HIV/AIDS. The purpose of this study was to evaluate the psychosocial factors perceived by Queer adults regarding the decision to use or not use pre-exposure prophylaxis (PrEP), which is the once-daily oral pill to prevent the contraction of HIV/AIDS. To gain insight, the statistical procedure of path analysis was used to identify the relationship between the seven constructs of the health belief model (HBM), and the adoption of the HIV-preventive safer sex behavior of using PrEP by Queer adults. Survey data from self-identifying Queer adults (n = 167) found that perceived susceptibility, perceived benefits, and perceived barriers were statistically significant in predicting intention to use PrEP among Queer adults, while perceived severity and self-efficacy were not statistically significant in predicting Queer adult intention to use PrEP. The present study found that the behavioral intention of taking PrEP is negatively associated with condom usage. Implications from these findings extend to theoretical understanding of psychosocial factors perceived by Queer youth regarding safer sex behavior change as well as practical recommendations for raising awareness surrounding safer sex behavior, and the adoption of safer sex behavior change. Keywords: Health belief model, HIV/AIDS, pre-exposure prophylaxis (PrEP), Queer adults
