Development and Psychometric Evaluation of Health Protective Sexual Communication Content Discussed Scale for Young Women in Gaborone, Botswana

Abstract

Health protective sexual communication can reduce HIV transmission, but women in Botswana find it difficult because of cultural barriers, suggesting the need for relevant measures. A Health Protective Sexual Communication Content Discussed Scale was developed and tested among young women aged 21–35 years in Gaborone, Botswana, to guide HIV prevention interventions. The project was conducted from June 2006 to August 2007. Literature review, expert advice, and a qualitative pilot guided the process. The scale had 22 items. The content validity index was 97%. Cronbach’s alpha was .69. Eight extracted factors included risky sexual behaviors and relationships, sexually transmitted infections, substance abuse, genital health concerns, and safer sex practices. The scale was valid and reliable and therefore useful in future research and interventions.