Contextualized Experiences and Predictors of Condom Use in a Flemish Population: A Mixed Methods Study

Alexis Dewaele (), Eva Koppen and Sandra Van den Eynde
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Alexis Dewaele: Department of Experimental Clinical and Health Psychology, Faculty of Psychology and Educational Sciences, Ghent University, Henri Dunantlaan 2, 9000 Gent, Belgium
Eva Koppen: Sensoa, Flemish Expertise Centre for Sexual Health, President Building, F. Rooseveltplaats 12 bus 7, 2060 Antwerpen, Belgium
Sandra Van den Eynde: Sensoa, Flemish Expertise Centre for Sexual Health, President Building, F. Rooseveltplaats 12 bus 7, 2060 Antwerpen, Belgium

IJERPH, 2024, vol. 21, issue 12, 1-16

Abstract: This study aims to address the gap in understanding condom use (CU) behavior in Flanders (the Dutch-speaking community in Belgium) by applying a mixed methods approach, integrating both quantitative and qualitative data. Utilizing a large-scale survey of over 14,000 participants and 11 in-depth interviews, the study explores key factors influencing CU, including (amongst others) relationship status, attitudes toward condoms, and STI testing. Quantitative findings highlight significant predictors such as the type of partner (casual vs. steady), STI testing behaviors, and negative attitudes toward condoms. Qualitative insights further reveal personal experiences that complicate CU decisions, such as the disruption of sexual flow and emotional dynamics within relationships. These findings underscore the complexity of CU behavior, showing that practical barriers (e.g., discomfort, fit) and personal beliefs play pivotal roles. The study concludes that targeted public health interventions could focus on improving condom accessibility and addressing both practical and emotional factors. Recommendations for sexual health education include promoting communication around CU and enhancing condom experimentation and fit. These findings contribute valuable insights into enhancing sexual health outcomes through more nuanced, contextualized approaches to condom use.

Keywords: condom use; sexual health; mixed methods; sexual risks; sexual health education (search for similar items in EconPapers)
JEL-codes: I I1 I3 Q Q5 (search for similar items in EconPapers)
Date: 2024
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