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A model of heterosexual adaptive relationship functioning in South Africa
Implications for HIV prevention interventions
Belus, J. M., Baucom, D. H., Carney, T., Carrino, E., & Wechsberg, W. M. (2018). A model of heterosexual adaptive relationship functioning in South Africa: Implications for HIV prevention interventions. International Journal of Sexual Health, 30(4), 398-411. https://doi.org/10.1080/19317611.2018.1530324
Objectives: Couple-based HIV prevention efforts are an important HIV prevention strategy in South Africa but there is a lack of understanding as to what constitutes healthy relationships in South African sociodisadvantaged communities. Methods: To address this, 8 focus group discussions were conducted with 27 men and 23 Black African women living in a large disadvantaged community in Cape Town, South Africa. Results: A model of adaptive relationship functioning is put forth, which involves four primary relationship components that emerged as central to healthy relationships: active relationship building, emotional support/display, communication, and problem-solving. Conclusions: The results of this study can inform couple-based HIV prevention efforts.
