CORRELATES OF CONDOM USE AMONG BLACK, HISPANIC, AND WHITE HETEROSEXUALS IN SAN-FRANCISCO - THE AMEN LONGITUDINAL SURVEY

We examined correlates of condom use among heterosexual whites, blacks , and Hispanics (ages 20-45 years) with an human immunodeficiency viru s (HN) risk factor in a community-based longitudinal sample (San Franc isco; n = 716). Lag models were used to examine hypothesized anteceden ts of condom use at wave 2. High levels of condom use were associated with labeling one's sexual behavior as risky for HIV infection, high l evels of condom enjoyment and commitment to use condoms, good sexual c ommunication practices, gender (trend), and marital status. The result s support the need for wide-ranging intervention programs that stimula te people to make personal risk assessments, teach basic sexual skills , and direct those in need of intensive help to appropriate agencies.