Analysis of Theory Utilization Among Prenatal HIV-Testing Research

Objectives: To ascertain extent and quality of theory utilization among published empirical studies specific to prenatal HIV testing. Methods: Systematic literature search for peer-reviewed articles was performed. Articles with "perceived barriers" construct to prenatal HIV testing from perspective of potential testees were sought. Results: Most studies mention constructs, but not specific theory. Few studies clearly reported how operationalized constructs were used within their studies. Conclusions: Paucity of theory utilization points to a breach of the "science" in the scientific process. Researchers either failed to adequately use theory or did so but failed to describe how.