UNDERSTANDING YOUTH AWARENESS OF BEHAVIORAL COUNSELING IN HIV PREVENTION: A QUALITATIVE CASE STUDY IN SABAH, MALAYSIA
DOI:
https://doi.org/10.51200/sapj.v14i1.7901Keywords:
HIV Prevention, Behavioral Counselling, Youth, Awareness,, Qualitative StudyAbstract
Behavioral counseling is an important component of HIV prevention; however, its effectiveness depends on public understanding and acceptance. This study explored youth awareness and perceptions of behavioral counseling in HIV prevention in Sabah, Malaysia. A qualitative case study design was employed involving seven participants aged 24 to 28 years from three districts in Sabah. Data were collected through semi-structured interviews, reflective diaries, and non-participant observations and analyzed thematically using the Health Belief Model and Cognitive Behavioral Therapy frameworks. The findings revealed that awareness of behavioral counseling remained limited and frequently misunderstood. Participants commonly perceived counseling as informal advice rather than a structured preventive intervention. Awareness was primarily shaped through informal social networks instead of institutional or healthcare-based sources. Low perceived susceptibility to HIV and sociocultural stigma further reduced willingness to engage with counseling services. The study highlights a disconnect between the availability of behavioral counseling and youths’ understanding of its preventive role. These findings emphasize the need for culturally responsive and youth-centered HIV prevention strategies that strengthen counseling awareness, reduce stigma, and improve engagement with preventive support services.
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