INTENDED SEX WITH FEWER PARTNERS - AN EMPIRICAL-TEST OF THE AIDS RISKREDUCTION MODEL AMONG INJECTION-DRUG USERS

The AIDS risk reduction model (ARRM) is a theory-based representation of psychosocial processes by which people may attempt to change their HIV risk behavior. This study tests the degree to which hypothesized r elationships among ARRM factors are consistent with cross-sectional da ta collected from a sample of HIV-negative injection drug users in Los Angeles, California. The data pertain to users' intentions to reduce HIV transmission risk incurred through sex with multiple partners. Fin dings conform to ARRM hypotheses in some important respects. In partic ular, findings suggest that perceived self-efficacy for sexual risk re duction may be a crucial factor leading to the formation of intentions to change sex-related HIV risk behavior.