American Indian University Students' Knowledge, Beliefs, and Behaviors Associated with HIV/AIDS

ABSTRACT Manuscript considers results of a research study that assesses American Indian university students' factual knowledge, understanding, and perceptions of susceptibility to HIV/AIDS, and relationships between their attitudes and decisions to engage in HIV-risk behaviors. Participants responded to a 57-item scaled survey and several demographic items. Survey items were grouped into five categories: factual knowledge about HIV/AIDS, perceptions about sexual intercourse and condom use, perceptions about susceptibility to HIV/AIDS, self-efficacy and HIV/AIDS, and personal beliefs about HIV/AIDS. Survey results indicate unique approaches should be employed when conducting HIV/AIDS prevention education programs for the heterogeneous American Indian/Alaska Native tribes in the United States.