Relational Commitment and HIV Prevention Communication Among Tanzanian Youth Aged 18-24

This study examined how relational commitment shapes HIV prevention communication and uptake of preventive services among young people in Tanzania. A convergent parallel mixed-methods design was used. Quantitative data were collected from 460 young people aged 18-24 years in Njombe District Council, Makambako Town Council, and Makete District Council. Qualitative data were obtained through 24 in-depth interviews with young people and contextual informants. Quantitative data were analysed using descriptive statistics, chi-square tests, and logistic regression, while qualitative data were analysed thematically. The findings showed that dating and married participants were more likely than single participants to discuss HIV prevention and report recent HIV testing. However, relationship status did not independently predict HIV testing or consistent condom use after accounting for communication-related factors. Communication exposure and prevention dialogue were associated with greater uptake of testing, whereas fear of testing and partner resistance constrained preventive action. Qualitative findings showed that testing was often framed as shared care, whereas condom negotiation could signal mistrust within committed relationships. The study concludes that relational commitment affects HIV prevention mainly by shaping communication, rather than directly determining behaviour.