The influence of motivational messages on future planning behaviors among HIV concordant positive and discordant couples in Lusaka, Zambia

R. Stephenson, E. Mendenhall, L. Muzizi, B. Vwalika, E. Chomba, Y. Ahmed, L. Clark, D. Roth, J. Telfair, A. Haworth, S. Allen

Research output: Contribution to journalArticlepeer-review

7 Scopus citations

Abstract

In Zambia the HIV/AIDS epidemic has resulted in many single female-headed households. Strong patriarchal laws and customs prevent widows and children from maintaining economic assets. This study examines the impact of a video-based motivational intervention promoting future planning in 1,504 HIV-infected couples in Lusaka, Zambia. Following a group video session, couples randomized to the motivational arm could choose to write a will, identify a guardian for their children and make financial plans. Desirable behaviours modelled in the motivational video were measured at quarterly intervals for a year and compared in intervention and control arms. Demographic measures including age, income and educational status were not associated with planning behaviours. Participation in the intervention was associated with will writing (23% versus 5%) and naming a guardian (32% versus 17%) but not with other planning behaviours. The study demonstrates the ability of motivational messages integrated into HIV VCT to encourage future planning behaviour and points to the need to expand existing HIV and VCT services to meet other non-health needs of those living with HIV.

Original languageEnglish (US)
Pages (from-to)150-160
Number of pages11
JournalAIDS Care - Psychological and Socio-Medical Aspects of AIDS/HIV
Volume20
Issue number2
DOIs
StatePublished - Feb 2008
Externally publishedYes

ASJC Scopus subject areas

  • Social Psychology
  • Health(social science)
  • Public Health, Environmental and Occupational Health

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