A formative evaluation to inform the development of an online condom distribution program Public
Haughney, Margaret (Spring 2018)
Published
Abstract
Young people ages 15 to 24 have the highest risk for STIs and unintended pregnancy, but barriers like cost and embarrassment prevent them from obtaining condoms, which can reduce risk. To overcome such barriers, web-based condom distribution programs (CDPs) offer a free and private way to acquire safer sex supplies. This evaluation assessed characteristics of web-based CDPs and elicited user feedback to inform the Jane Fonda Center’s development of a web-based CDP. Twenty websites were identified through internet searches; data on 87 variables were collected, and descriptive statistics were calculated in Microsoft Excel. Then, interview data from nine university students ages 19-22 were thematically analyzed using MAXQDA.
Analysis of the features of existing CDP websites did not align with the expressed preferences of interview participants. Most websites did not allow custom packages and only offered male condoms and lubricant, but participants thought that customization and alternatives to male condoms would be useful. Participants also wanted more information about contents of supply packages than most websites provided. Regarding website aesthetics, participants preferred bright color schemes, which most websites had, and simple layouts that facilitated navigation. While most websites used a neutral rather than positive tone towards sex, participants preferred sex-positive imagery and language. They also thought clinical- or professional-appearing websites conveyed the idea that the websites were intended for people with health problems rather than people looking to make positive health choices. Websites mainly focused on STI/HIV prevention, but participants suggested providing information on pregnancy prevention too. To improve information delivery and create more “scannable” text, participant recommendations included subheadings and bullet point lists.
Overall, this evaluation identified certain gaps between current websites for CDPs and what student participants preferred. A better understanding of what target audiences need and want from an online CDP will allow CDPs to target their services to increase user satisfaction and rates of use. With increased access to and use of safer sex supplies, young peoples’ risk of STIs and unintended pregnancy will likely decrease. These findings will provide a starting point for the Jane Fonda Center’s work to increase safer sex supply access in Atlanta.
Table of Contents
Introduction..........................1
Literature review....................4
Methods...............................21
Website assessment results....27
Interview results...................34
Discussion............................55
Appendices...........................76
References............................81
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