Exploring perceptions and experiences of young adults regarding condoms use as prevention with-in a Johannesburg South community, South Africa

Abstract

The world has made notable progress towards the eradication of the human-immunodeficiency virus / acquired immunodeficiency syndrome (HIV and AIDS) pandemic in the past three decades, and condom use during sex has been a key driver. The recent UNAIDS (2023) global HIV & AIDS report shows that while the new HIV infections have declined, this is not fast enough and highly unsustainable to eradicate the epidemic as targeted by 2030. This study explored perceptions and experiences of young adults regarding condom use as prevention against HIV in a Johannesburg community. Concepts from the Integrated Behavioural Model (IBM) and Social Learning Theory (SLT) were used to identify perceptions and experiences that influenced condom use among young adults. Furthermore, the study adopted a phenomenological design to attempt answer the research question. Using the purposive sampling technique, data were collected through observations, semi-structured interviews, participant journaling and a key-informant interview to achieve the research objectives. Thematic data analysis techniques were used to make sense the vast data for insights relating perception and experiences regarding condom use to prevent HIV among young adults. The findings, in line with current research, show that irregular condom use among young adults is influenced by unsupportive socio-economic contexts; negative perceptions and experiences with public health facilities, health workers and the condoms issued from these facilities. Shortage of condoms at public and non-government organisations (NGOs) in the past years was found to potentially explain inconsistent condom use among the target population. The study proposes young adults-specific and appropriately resourced health centres at public clinics, in addition to supporting vulnerable young adults living in desperate socio-economic contexts. The study also recommends reimagined and more robust education and skill programmes on sexual health and condom use.