AIDS Health Locus of Control, Self-Efficacy for Safer Sexual Practices, and Future Time Orientation as Predictors of Condom Use in African American College Students

Abstract

This study examined the relationship between self-reported frequency of condom use (by self or partner during the past 6 months and lifetime), locus of control, self-efficacy, and future time orientation among African American college students who were single and sexually active during the past year. Data were collected from 106 undergraduate students at a southeastern university. The sample included both men (32.1%) and women (67.9%). The mean age of the sample was 21.1 years. Locus of control did not predict condom use. Greater probability of condom use was related to higher self-efficacy and future time orientation scores. Furthermore, women with stronger future orientations exhibited more frequent current and past use of condoms in their sexual activities than males. The implications of these findings for AIDS prevention education programs are discussed.