Theories of reasoned action and planned behavior as models of condom use: A meta-analysis

To examine how well the theories of reasoned action and planned behavior pr edict condom use, the authors synthesized 96 data sets (N = 22,594) contain ing associations between the models' key variables. Consistent with the the ory of reasoned action's predictions, (a) condom use was related to intenti ons (weighted mean r. = .45), (b) intentions were based on attitudes (r. = .58) and subjective norms (r. = .39), and (c) attitudes were associated wit h behavioral beliefs (r. = .56) and norms were associated with normative be liefs (r. = .46). Consistent with the theory of planned behavior's predicti ons, perceived behavioral control was related to condom use intentions (r. = .45) and condom use (r. = .25), but in contrast to the theory, it did not contribute significantly to condom use. The strength of these associations , however, was influenced by the consideration of past behavior. Implicatio ns of these results for HIV prevention efforts are discussed.