Risk Perception and Response to Perceived Risk Models: Findings from the Slums of Nairobi

Yetty Shobo, Pennsylvania State University

This study uses the Nairobi Cross-sectional Slum Survey to examine factors affecting AIDS risk perception by sexually active females and the impact of risk perception and marital status on the adoption of HIV/AIDS preventive measures. I find that autocratic male control is slightly related to risk perception and response to risk perceived by using condoms and practicing monogamy. analyzes show that cohabitation, being of Luo ethnicity, domestic abuse, and suspecting partner infidelity are associated with higher odds of perceiving moderate to high risk. Women perceiving such level of risk are twice as likely to reduce their number of sexual partners as those perceiving small risk. Overall, women who perceive some level of risk are more likely to adopt preventive measures that can be implemented independently rather than measures requiring collaboration such as condom use. Campaigns promoting collaboration between sexual partners are, therefore, urgently needed to dampen Africa’s AIDS epidemic.