doi:10.1023/B:AIBE.0000017529.20932.73

Paper Title

Condom Use as a Dependent Variable: A Brief Commentary About Classification of Inconsistent Users

Authors

Keywords

Condom Use
Inconsistent Condom Use
Consistent Condom Use
Condom Use Frequency
Screening Analysis
Dichotomization
Sexual Behavior
STI Prevention
Cross-Sectional Survey
University Students
Sexual Health Research
Data Classification
Condom Use Measurement
sexually transmitted infections
dichotomy

Article Type

Research Article

Journal

AIDS and Behavior

Research Impact Tools

DOI

10.1023/B:AIBE.0000017529.20932.73

Issue

Volume : 8 | Issue : 1 | Page No : 99–103

Published On

March, 2004

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Abstract

Transformation of nonnormally distributed measures of condom use frequency can be problematic for researchers. Distributions are typically dichotomized. We used data collected from 483 university undergraduates in an anonymous, cross-sectional survey to illustrate the value of a screening analysis before dichotomization. Inconsistent condom users were compared to consistent users with respect to 14 measures. Subsequently, inconsistent users were compared to those who never used condoms with regard to the same 14 measures. Findings suggest that a screening analysis is a potentially important aspect of analyzing distributions that assess frequency of condom use.