HIV risk behavior self-report reliability at different recall periods

Few studies have investigated the optimal length of recall period for self-report of sex and drug-use behaviors. This meta-analysis of 28 studies examined the test-retest reliability of three commonly used recall periods: 1, 3, and 6 months. All three recall periods demonstrated acceptable test-retest reliability, with the exception of recall of needle sharing behaviors and 6-months recall of some sex behaviors. For most sex behaviors, a recall period of 3 months was found to produce the most reliable data; however, 6 months was best for recalling number of sex partners. Overall, shorter periods were found to be more reliable for recall of drug-use behaviors, though the most reliable length of recall period varied for different types of drugs. Implications of the findings and future directions for research are discussed

• Population(s)
  • Children or Youth (less than 18 years old)
  • People who use drugs
  • General HIV- population
  • Other
• Prevention
  • Sexual risk behaviour
  • Drug use behaviours/harm reduction
• Substance Use
  • Nonmedicinal drugs