A controlled randomized response technique.

The randomized response survey technique appears to be suitable for studies of sensitive sexual behaviors, particularly in AIDS-related research. However, existing methods provide only estimates of group statistics, not of individual information. Additionally, the popular "unrelated question" approach requires the knowledge of the parameters of the unrelated question. In this article, a variation of the unrelated-question method is suggested for use. Specifically, it is suggested that the unrelated question be one to which the response is known to be "yes." Through this "controlled" approach, the raw data become a direct linear transformation of the response to the sensitive question, and thus can be used directly in regression and other analyses at the individual score level. The estimation of the parameters for the unrelated question is not necessary and the hesitation to provide a "yes" response found in the "forced choice" method is minimized.

Factors influencing selected heterosexual male college students' condom use.

This study assessed selected heterosexual male college students' use of condoms, their reasons for using condoms, and their attitudes toward sexuality and condoms. Three hundred five male subjects completed a questionnaire that assessed class standing, marital status, reasons for using condoms, number of recent sexual partners, intention to use condoms, and attitudes toward sexuality and condoms. Although no relationship between attitudes toward sexuality and attitudes toward condoms was noted, a negative correlation (-.42) was found between attitude toward condoms and intention to use condoms within the next month if the subject were to have intercourse during that time. Recommendations for increasing condom use are presented.

PIP: The prevalence of condom use, the reasons condoms are selected, and attitudes toward condoms and sexuality were investigated in a sample of 305 heterosexual male students at Virginia Polytechnic Institute. 72% of respondents reported that they had used a condom at least once. Of the 219 students reporting a history of condom use, 27 (12%) did so primarily to prevent the spread of sexually transmitted diseases and 164 (75%) were mainly concerned with preventing pregnancy. The subjects' mean score on a attitudes toward condoms scale was 67.89 (the scale ranged from 21-105), suggesting that the overall attitude toward condoms was neither positive nor negative. The lowest score on the scale was for the statement, "condoms are pleasant to use," while the highest score was for the item, "I would have no objection if my partner suggested that we use a condom." On the other hand, the statement, "I would avoid using condoms if at all possible," received widespread acceptance. The only significant correlation between attitudinal items and condom use was that males who intended to use condoms within the next month were more likely to have a positive attitude toward condom use. 2 of the findings of this study have implications for contraceptive education programs among young men. 1st, there is a need for greater emphasis on the prophylactic function of condom use. 2nd, given the finding that most students were willing to use condoms if pressured by their female sexual partners, programs should be designed to encourage women students to suggest or even provide condoms to their male partners.

Demographic and practice characteristics of chiropractors.

The purpose of this study was to determine the demographic and practice characteristics of chiropractors. A four-part survey questionnaire was developed and mailed to a national stratified (by state) random sample of chiropractors. The analysis of data revealed that most chiropractors hold an undergraduate degree, practice in an urban area, are licensed to practice in only one state, belong to their state's chiropractic association, and are active in continuing education. Other data analyzed related to income, sources of new patients and average fees charged.