AIDSImpact.com:: - Santa Fe, USA 2011

Abstract #252 - The association of disinhibitory behavior with risky sexual behavior and perceived HIV risk
Authors: Presenting Author: Dr Matthew McQueen - University of Colorado Boulder
Additional Authors: Dr. Maureen Muchimba, Ms. Megan Reamy, Dr. Sara Yeatman,
Aim: Behavioral disinhibition is characterized by impulsivity and risk behaviors including substance use and delinquency. Little research has been conducted on the role of behavioral disinhibition in risky sexual behavior and perceived HIV risk. The aims of this study were to evaluate the relationship between (1) disinhibitory behaviors and multiple sexual partners, (2) disinhibitory behaviors and perceived HIV risk and (3) impulsivity and perceived HIV risk.
Method / Issue: Cross-sectional data were collected from a sample of 2500 men and women participating in the Tsogolo la Thanzi (TLT) study from the Balaka District of Malawi. A disinhibitory behavior score (DBS) was constructed using questions assessing disinhibitory behavior including early age at first drink, drug use, gambling, physical fights and vandalism. Impulsive personality was identified through a series of measures that assess impulsive tendencies. Logistic regression models were used to model the relationship between (1) DBS and more than one partner in the previous four months, (2) DBS and perceived HIV risk and (3) impulsive personality and self-identified potential of being HIV positive. All models controlled for age, gender, marital status and education.
Results / Comments: There was a positive association between DBS and whether a participant was with more than one sexual partner in the previous four months [OR=2.25 (1.71, 2.88)]. In addition, there was a significant relationship between DBS and perceived HIV risk [OR=1.18 (1.13, 1.24)]. Finally, we observed an association between DBS and self-identified potential of being HIV positive [OR=1.67 (1.05, 2.80).
Discussion: Behavioral disinhibition - as characterized through substance use, gambling and delinquency - is a strong correlate of engaging in risky sexual behavior. In addition, individuals engaging in these high-risk behaviors have a higher perceived risk of HIV infection. Finally, individuals identifying with impulsive tendencies are more likely to report the potential for HIV positive status. These findings are consistent with research from western societies, and underscore the importance of prevention initiatives that target HIV sexual risk behaviors in conjunction with other problem (disinhibitory) behaviors.
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