Acceptability of a Just-in-Time Adaptive Intervention for HIV Prevention among Youth Experiencing Homelessness: A Qualitative Analysis

Abstract

Background. Few interventions leverage technology to mitigate HIV risks in youth experiencing homelessness (YEH). This study assesses the acceptability and impacts of an app-based just-in-time adaptive intervention for HIV prevention from the YEH perspective. Methods. Sixteen interviews were conducted with YEH in a large, urban Southwest city. Inductive thematic analysis was used to explore YEH experience with the app, including recommendations for improvement and perceived impact. Results. Youth experiencing homelessness reported high acceptance of the app. Several youths described changing risk behaviors after enrolling in the study. Youth found the app easy to navigate and the goal interface helpful in tracking progress. Challenges included stolen phones and survey timing. Youth experiencing homelessness strongly recommended customized messages and questions to avoid redundancy, and that real-time support for struggling youth be accessible through the app. Conclusion. A just-in-time adaptive intervention for HIV prevention is acceptable to YEH. Larger studies are needed to evaluate long-term impacts on HIV risk behavior.