Using theory to understand how interventions work: Project RESPECT, condom use, and the Integrative Model

Abstract

The Integrative Model of Behavioral Prediction (IM) provides guidelines for the development of successful HIV/STD interventions, yet few HIV prevention programs have identified which components of the IM have been associated with successful behavioral outcomes. Using structural equation modeling, this study examines in detail how components of the IM assessed prior to, and immediately after, the delivery of an intervention are associated with reported condom use 3 months later among participants in Project RESPECT, a multisite randomized controlled trial testing HIV/STD risk reduction strategies among clients attending public health clinics for sexually transmitted diseases. Overall, the IM predicted condom use at 3 months; there were, however, variations in the relative contribution of differing IM components as a function of gender and type of sexual partner as well as the type of intervention the participant had received.