The Research

To design and test the efficacy of the intervention, Crosby et al. originated a two-year randomized control study in a public STD clinic in Louisville, KY. Results from this study showed various positive effects on the behaviors of the intervention clients. After STD diagnosis, 226 eligible men were randomized to either a personalized, single-session intervention (Focus on the Future) or standard of care. Behavioral assessments were conducted at baseline and 3-months post-intervention, as well as a 6-month medical record review.

Over the 6 months following the intervention, a significant number of men reported having fewer sexual partners, significantly fewer acts of unprotected sex, and were significantly more likely to report using condoms during their last episode of sexual intercourse with a woman. They also had significantly improved proficiency scores for condom application skills. The results also suggest a substantial protective benefit for men's female sexual partners against HIV or other STD acquisition.