The Adolescent HIV Disclosure Cognition and Affect Scale: Preliminary Reliability and Validity

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Abstract

Objectives 
Globally, there are 2 million HIV-positive 10–19-year-olds. One challenge for this population is sharing their HIV status with others (onward HIV disclosure). There are no multi-item, multidimensional scales of HIV disclosure cognitions and affect for young people living with HIV.

Methods 
An 18-item measure of HIV disclosure cognition and affect was developed, administered to 65 adolescents living with HIV (aged 12–16 years). Data were explored using principal component analysis and preliminary construct and criterion validity assessed.

Results 
Three factors were revealed: negative disclosure attitudes and feelings, self-efficacy, and positive disclosure attitudes and feelings. The full scale and its subscales were internally consistent. The total score showed statistically significant positive relationships with HIV disclosure in the past 6 months, HIV disclosure intention and self-perception.

Conclusions 
Preliminary evidence of the measure’s good psychometric properties suggests it may be helpful in future clinical and research work.
Original languageEnglish
Pages (from-to)711-720
Number of pages10
JournalJournal of Pediatric Psychology
Volume42
Issue number6
Early online date26 Feb 2017
DOIs
Publication statusPublished - 1 Jul 2017

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