Testing the application of a Western scientific theory of AIDS risk behavior among adolescents in Ethiopia.

OBJECTIVE To test whether a theoretical scheme developed in the United States within the framework of Western science could be applied to a study of HIV risk behaviors among Ethiopian youths. METHODS Informal interviews and focus group discussions were conducted to determine the relevance of particular AIDS-related risk and protective factors suggested by Jessor's theoretical framework and to generate additional risk and protective factors that were not suggested by a review of the (predominantly Western) literature on adolescent risk behavior. Data from informal interviews and focus group discussions were used to develop survey instruments and procedures for administering survey instruments A pilot study among 99 youths was conducted to examine the reliability and construct validity of the survey instrument. RESULTS Based on information from focus group discussions and informal interviews, we confirmed the relevance of particular AIDS-related risk and protective factors. The definition of existing constructs was expanded and additional risk and protective factors were incorporated into the existing framework. Existing items and procedures for administering survey instruments were improved and new items were generated. The reliability of survey instruments was determined and improved whenever possible. CONCLUSIONS We discuss the value of these preliminary steps for securing external validity by identifying theoretical constructs that are relevant to the population at hand and the use of a survey instrument that adequately captures these constructs and provides reliable information.