Social Approval and Condom Use Among Youth in Urban Cameroon
Author Information
Author(s): Ronan Van Rossem, Dominique Meekers
Hypothesis
Youths do not necessarily turn to peers for social approval regarding condom use.
Conclusion
Perceived social approval from family members significantly facilitates condom use among urban Cameroonian youth.
Supporting Evidence
- 93% of youths valued family members' opinions over friends' regarding condom use.
- Condom use increased from 62% in 2000 to 78% in 2003 among youths.
- Perceived social approval positively affected the frequency of condom use.
Takeaway
Young people in Cameroon are more likely to use condoms if their family members support it, rather than their friends.
Methodology
Data from three survey waves (2000, 2002, 2003) were analyzed using bivariate analyses and structural equation modeling.
Potential Biases
Respondents may overestimate the approval of their MVPs regarding condom use.
Limitations
Respondents could only name one most valued person, which may not capture the full range of social influences.
Participant Demographics
Youths aged 15-24, predominantly male (approximately 80%).
Statistical Information
P-Value
p<0.001
Statistical Significance
p<0.001
Digital Object Identifier (DOI)
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