A Multisite Randomized Trial of a Motivational Intervention Targeting Multiple Risks in Youth Living With HIV: Initial Effects on Motivation, Self-Efficacy, and Depression
Received 11 November 2008; accepted 9 November 2009. published online 04 February 2010.
Abstract
Purpose
Interventions targeting multiple risk behaviors are needed for youth living with HIV (YLH). A randomized clinical trial compared Healthy Choices, a four session motivational intervention targeting two of the three risk behaviors (HIV medication adherence, sexual risk behavior and substance use) to multidisciplinary specialty care alone. This article presents intermediary outcomes available at 3-month follow-up, variables proposed to be precursors to behavior change (motivation, self-efficacy, and depression).
Methods
YLH (N=186) with at least one of the three problem behaviors were recruited from four sites in the Adolescent Trials Network and one non–Adolescent Trials Network site, and were assessed at baseline and 3 months.
Results
Of the 94 youth randomly assigned to the treatment condition, 84% received at least one session, 67% received at least two sessions, 56% received at least three sessions, and 49% completed all four sessions. In intent-to-treat analysis, only depression was significantly improved in the treatment group as compared with controls. However, in per-protocol analysis, youth receiving at least two sessions of the intervention also showed significant improvements in motivational readiness to change as compared with youth in the control condition.
Conclusion
Results suggest the potential benefits of clinic-based motivational interventions for YLH who access these interventions. Delivering interventions in the community using an outreach model may improve access. Analysis of subsequent time points will determine effects on actual behavior change.
Address correspondence to: Sylvie Naar-King, Ph.D., WSU Pediatric Prevention Research Center, University Health Center 6-D5, 4201 St. Antoine, Detroit, MI 48201.
ABSTRACT