Factorial Structure and Psychometric Properties of a Brief Scale of the Condom Use Self

Background. Studies have shown the role played by perceived self-efficacy in explaining condom negotiation and condom use. Aims. The factorial structure and the psychometric properties of the Brief Condom Use Self-Efficacy Scale are presented. Method. The study included 368 men and 456 women aged 17 to 55 years (Mage = 25.01, SD = 6.93). Results. Exploratory factor analysis yielded three factors: fear of rejection, impulse control, and condom acquisition and negotiation, which together accounted for 68% of the total variance. That structure was confirmed through confirmatory factor analysis. Cronbach’s alpha for the Brief Condom Use Self-Efficacy Scale was .71. The scale provided adequate convergent validity, and positive correlations were observed between self-reported condom use and self-efficacy for use of other barrier methods. Discussion. This brief instrument could be a useful and appropriate measure to assess the types of condom use self-efficacy that occur at the different moments of a sexual relationship