Learning Objective #1: Identify the research process for this behavioral intervention relating to adolescents at-risk for HIV/STDs, including purpose, background literature supporting intervention processes, methods, risks, and benefits

Learning Objective #2: Discuss the findings of this intervention, implications for future nursing research, nursing education, and nursing practice

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The purpose is to examine the effectiveness of BART, a behavioral-based curriculum. Perceptions of at-risk male and female teens in residence at the Youth Challenge Program at Camp Shelby, Mississippi, were used. Background—There were empirical and theoretical reasons to believe that high-risk adolescents could benefit from this intervention. BART (St. Lawrence et al., 1995) is based on Fisher and Fisher's (1992) three-factor conceptualization, called the IMB model (information, motivation, and behavioral skills—a risk reduction model). Previously, pre- and post-data were collected and compared with high-risk adolescents at the Youth Challenge Program (Butts & Hartman, 2002). Significant differences were found in the mean scores of the HIV Attitude Scale (p=.081) and AIDS Risk Knowledge Test (p=.001). Feedback from the participants in the study revealed that wording on the Condom Attitude Scale and the Risk Behavior Survey was ambiguous. Comparative results of these scales were not significant and were unintelligible. All four questionnaires were edited for clarity. The design is quasi-experimental comparative. The hypotheses are that the intervention (a) will produce significant improvement in HIV attitudes, AIDS risk knowledge, and condom attitudes in teens at the YCP and (b) will significantly reduce risky behavioral intentions expressed by teens at the YCP. Two complete programs of BART were conducted with two groups, consisting of one group of males and one group of females, each with 15 to 20 participants. Pre- and post-intervention of the 4 questionnaires and a process evaluation of the program were administered. All data were combined, and comparisons were made at the .05 probability level. Analysis yielded many t-tests and ancillary tests. Findings—Significant differences were found on the Condom Attitude Scale, AIDS Risk Knowledge Test, HIV Attitude Scale, and parts of the Risk Behavior Survey. Recommendations for future nursing research, practice, and education are offered.