Adaptation, development and evaluation of eHIS intervention to enhance male condom use

This thesis presents the process of adaptation, development1 and evaluation of eHIS intervention to enhance male condom use. Description of theoretical underpinnings of the project is followed by a step-by-step presentation of the development and evaluation process, which was supported by evidence review and feedback from participants at eHIS development stages.In the systematic review completed within the project different methods of supporting development of technical condom use skills (TCUS) were reviewed and their associations with condom use related behaviours, cognitions and sexually transmitted infections (STIs) were explored. Demonstration, skills rehearsal and self-monitoring were amongst the techniques included in the effective interventions promoting condom use. Results of the qualitative evaluations of the intervention prototype and its computerised version completed within the project allowed insight into potential users’ experience with eHIS, understanding of barriers and facilitators of engagement with the intervention, and identification of its areas requiring further development.In the final study feasibility and preliminary effectiveness of eHIS were evaluated. Its results indicated potential new target groups (those with less condom use experience and men aged 26 and over). The general acceptance of the intervention approach was high amongst those who completed follow-up questionnaires. The intervention was found to be potentially effective in increasing condom use consistency, reducing frequency of sexual intercourse without a condom being used, improving condom use experience, increasing condom use self-efficacy and reducing condom use errors and problems. The evaluation approach was found to be adequate