Abstract
Individual perceptions, attitudes and social environments play a significant role in shaping adolescent sexual behaviors. Guided by the Health Belief Model (HBM) and the Theory of Planned Behavior (TPB), this study evaluated the predictors of condom-use intentions among Senior High School students in Naawan District, Northern Mindanao, Philippines. The researcher used descriptive-correlational and causal research designs and obtained 164 respondents by using a validated Likert-type questionnaire. The descriptive analysis showed that the students' perception of risk from unsafe sexual practices was high, attitudes towards condom use were generally positive, and influences from peers and teachers were constructive in the students' decisions about sexual health. Results of correlation analysis indicated that there was a significant correlation between the perceived risk, attitudes, social influence, and condom use intention. In addition, multiple regression showed that the perceived benefits of condom use, peer influence, and moral/cultural beliefs were significantly related to intentions; and that peer influence and perceived benefits were the strongest predictors. The findings underscore the importance of peer-led interventions as well as teacher-led sexual health education to promote responsible adolescent sexual behaviors, and the need for culturally relevant, values-driven curricula.
