Regional Mortality Risks and HIV Prevention: Does Risk of Dying Influence Risky Sexual Behavior? Poster 41

For a long time, HIV prevention efforts directed at youths have had little success in changing sexual behavior. This study attempts to solve this puzzle by incorporating insights from human capital theory. When one's projected... [ view full abstract ]

For a long time, HIV prevention efforts directed at youths have had little success in changing sexual behavior. This study attempts to solve this puzzle by incorporating insights from human capital theory. When one's projected life expectancy is shorter, the theory predicts, risk taking increases. Building on this model, this study tests empirically whether behavioral change depends on mortality risks. I use data from a Randomized Controlled Trial (RCT) in Zambia, which evaluated a program targeting adolescent females. The program provided community mentorship program, with a focus on HIV prevention. In my analysis, I identify the heterogeneity of the treatment effects pertaining to non-HIV mortality risks, with the hypothesis that participants facing more risks of dying are less likely to benefit from the treatment. The preliminary results appear to be in favor of the hypothesis. The findings will have implications on tailoring prevention policies to better suit the environment where the targeted populations live. Moreover, the findings suggest that systematic evaluation of prevention efforts should extend beyond the nature of the treatment and the participant’s characteristics.