Predictors of Sexual Behavior among Korean College Student: Testing the Theory of Planned Behavior

Purpose: This study examined the relationships among variables derived from Ajzen's Theory of Planned Behavior (TpB) in order to explain intentions of premarital sex and condom use in Korean college students. Methods: This study used a cross-sectional, correlational design using an exploratory survey methodology through self-reported questionnaires. Several instruments were used to measure the variables studied. Students aged 18-25 were recruited from a university in Seoul, Korea using a flyer and self-referral (male =165, mean age: 22.6; female=133, mean age: 20.67). Since there was a small amount of missing data (6.88%) and no differences in sample characteristics between the missing (n=22) and the non-missing groups (n=298), list-wise deletion was performed. The analytic approach included descriptive statistics, spearman rank correlation, and multi-sample structure equation modeling. All instruments showed good reliabilities. Cronbach's alphas were used to examine internal consistencies of the instruments (alpha=0.77 - 0.98). Results: Forty nine percent of male students and around 12% of the female students had engaged in premarital sex; however, only 26.7% of sexually active students always used condoms. Looking at the model of premarital sex, premarital attitude was the strongest predictor of intention of premarital sex for both genders. For males, the TpB components of attitude, perceived behavior control, subjective norms explained intention of premarital sex; however, perceived behavioral control did not predict intention of premarital sex for females. A Lagrange Multiplier (LM) test showed that male and female students had different models to explain intention of premarital sex (S-B chi-square test(22) =20.55, p=0.55, CFI=1.00, RMSEA=0.000). Looking at the model of condom use, condom efficacy was the strongest predictor of intention of condom use, and all TpB components significantly predicted intention of condom use. Higher condom efficacy predicted a higher intention. The LM test showed that male and female students shared one model to explain this intention (S-B chi-square test(17) =22.72, p=0.16, CFI=0.98, RMSEA=0.03). Conclusion: The TpB has demonstrated applicability for predicting intentions of premarital sex and condom use as a way to decrease risky sexual behavior within the Korean culture. Findings provide information for developing better sex education programs for Korean late adolescents and young adults