RETHINKING PERCEIVED RISK AND HEALTH BEHAVIOR - A CRITICAL-REVIEW OF HIV PREVENTION RESEARCH

Perceived risk of infection, one factor influencing HN-related behavio r decisions, has been the focus of expanding research efforts. A body of research now exists examining factors related to risk perceptions a nd the relationship between risk perceptions and behavioral decision m aking. This article examines 60 quantitative studies of HIV-related ri sk perceptions, identifies methodological and theoretical limitations or gaps in current knowledge, and suggests ways future research might better assess the role of risk perceptions and facilitate the adoption and maintenance of HIV-related health protective behaviors. The autho rs argue that mixed findings in the quantitative literature are due to (1) cross-sectional study designs that constrain or confound the inte rpretation of findings, (2) construct confusion and measurement incons istencies, (3) insufficient consideration of specific subgroup or beha vioral differences, and (4) inattention to situational norms and other contextual factors that influence risk perceptions and behavior.