Development of the Mobile Technology Vulnerability Scale among Youth and Young Adults Living with HIV

Introduction: Youth and young adults living with HIV (YLWH) in the US have the lowest viral suppression percentage. Lack of sufficient technology access may be correlated with HIV health outcomes in this population. Methods: We developed a Mobile Technology Vulnerability Scale (MTVS; 18 items) among 18–29-year-olds. Exploratory factor analysis (EFA) was performed on baseline data (N = 79), followed by a confirmatory factor analysis (CFA) of 6-month follow-up data (N = 69). Cronbach’s alpha for internal consistency and test-retest reliability were examined. We also correlated the scale with self-report antiretroviral therapy (ART) adherence. Results: EFA yielded a single-factor solution at baseline after dropping one item. CFA at follow-up corroborated the single-factor. Cronbach’s alpha was high and MTVS was correlated with ART adherence at both time points. MTVS at baseline and 6 months were correlated. Conclusion: The 17-item MTVS scale was found to be valid and reliable and related to ART adherence.