NCJ Number
150970
Journal
Corrections Research Forum Volume: 5 Issue: 1 Dated: January 1993 Pages: 31-33
Date Published
January 1993
Length
3 pages
Annotation
Inmates in two correctional facilities in Toronto, Ontario, Canada, were interviewed to determine their level of knowledge and awareness of HIV and AIDS and their opions about AIDS educatino, prison exit kits, condom distribution, bleaching its, and needle exchanges in the community.
Abstract
The research aimed to collect information to assist in the development of an AIDS education and prevention program tailored to the needs and preference of inmates. A survey questionnaire was administered individually to each of the 100 participants. All were males. Results revealed that participants were most often repeat offenders aged 18-22 with educational levels of grades 9-11. Twenty-one percent were first-time offenders, while 65 percent were repeat offenders. Sixty-one percent were born in Canada; 19 percent were from the Caribbean. Overall, the inmates had a relatively high level of AIDS awareness and knowledge. However, they had alarming misconceptions regarding HIV transmission. A large proportion reported that the media was their only source of information. Only 6 percent had received AIDS information during their current incarceration. Most had never heard of Toronto's many AIDS community agencies or other community groups providing AIDS/HIV information or services. The vast majority believed that AIDS education in prison would be helpful. Findings indicated the urgent need for accurate and effective inmate educational programs concerning AIDS prevention; such a program should be compulsory, and inmates should be involved in program development and peer training. Descriptions of a report and an inmate AIDS education book