Title:Behavioral Decision Research Intervention Reduces Risky Sexual Behavior
Volume: 13
Issue: 5
Author(s): Julie S. Downs, Wandi Bruine de Bruin, Baruch Fischhoff and Pamela J. Murray
Affiliation:
Keywords:
Adolescents, behavioral intervention, decision science, interactive video, sexual health.
Abstract: Although adolescents are at disproportionate risk for sexually transmitted infections, most
sex education programs have shown little effect on sexual behavior. An interactive video intervention
developed by our team has been identified as one of a few programs that have been documented to
reduce sexually transmitted infections in this population. Building on behavioral decision research, we
used a mental models approach to interview young women about their sexual decisions, finding,
among other things, the strong role of perceived social norms. We based our intervention on these
results, aiming to help young women identify and implement personally and socially acceptable decision strategies. A
randomized controlled trial found that the video reduced risky sexual behavior and the acquisition of chlamydia infection.
We recently revised the video to suit more diverse audiences, and upgraded it to modern standards of cinematography and
interactivity. It is now in field trial.
