The relevance of cultural factors in predicting condom-use intentions among immigrants from the Netherlands Antilles

Abstract

A study into the relevance of cultural factors in predicting condom-use intentions among Antillean migrants in the Netherlands is described in this article. The association between the intention to use condoms with a new sexual partner and a perceived taboo on discussing sex, beliefs about sex education and machismo beliefs on gender and power relationships is addressed. The study was conducted among 346 Dutch Antilleans from a random sample of an Antillean population aged 15-50 years. The response rate was 37.8%. The results showed that condom-use intentions were primarily determined by perceived subjective norms, the perceived taboo on discussing sex, machismo attitudes, gender, age and educational background. Moreover, the respondent's opinion regarding machismo was an effect modificator for the association between condom-use intentions and subjective social norm. It is concluded that, in predicting condom-use intentions, factors specific to the culture of a population contribute significantly to the determinants drawn from the general social-cognition models. It is recommended that future research should use measurement instruments that are adapted to culture-specific beliefs, and should explore the influence of cultural factors on actual condom use. Moreover, interventions promoting condom use among migrant populations should target the cultural correlates of condom use.

Factors contributing to inconsistent condom use among heterosexual men in Curaçao

“…At the same time, that ability and willingness is significantly impacted by a vast array of cultural, political, economic, environmental, structural and ideological factors (Bartholomew et al 2011;QuevedoGómez et al 2012). A social ecological approach to health promotion, whereby health is viewed as a function of individuals and their physical, social and cultural environments, recognizes that health promotion interventions must align their objectives and strategies with the cultural context and social reality of the target population (Bertens, Krumeich et al 2008;Huedo-Medina et al 2010;Kocken, van Dorst, and Schaalma 2006). Additionally, to be successful, sexual health promotion interventions must be systematically developed, implemented and evaluated (Schaalma et al 2004).…”

“…Additionally, to be successful, sexual health promotion interventions must be systematically developed, implemented and evaluated (Schaalma et al 2004). This process can be complex and cumbersome but conducting a needs assessment that, in collaboration with target populations, delineates factors impacting the health issue in question before intervention development helps to elucidate those factors that, when targeted, are mostly like to yield change (Bartholomew et al 2011;Kocken, van Dorst, and Schaalma 2006).…”

“…In another study conducted with both male and female immigrants from the (former) Netherlands Antilles, Kocken, van Dorst and Schaalma (2006) also reported on the relevance of cultural factors in predicting intentions to use condoms. Using quantitative data, they showed that condom use intentions are predicted by, among other things, perceived subjective norms regarding condoms, the perceived taboo on discussing sex and machismo attitudes.…”

Effects of health education for migrant females with psychosomatic complaints treated by general practitioners

“…These communication problems can lead to non-compliance and inappropriate use of health care services [3]. It is advised that effective health care service delivery and health education has to take in consideration the cultural backgrounds of target populations [4,5]. In The Netherlands, migrant health educators are used in general medical practices as adjuncts to facilitate the communication between GPs and patients from ethnic minority groups.…”

Bahamian Men's Sexual Risks for HIV Infection

“…However, findings conflict in the literature regarding the association between age and condom use. For instance, inconsistent condom use has been negatively linked to young and older sexually active adults (Chaudhuri & Ray, 2004;Kocken et al, 2006;Lawoyin, 2004;Pelzer, 2001;Semple, Patterson, & Grant, 2004;Wiggers et al, 2003). Income was also found to be a determinant of consistent condom use (Janepanish, Dancy, & Park, 2010;Week, 2009).…”