NCJ Number
163768
Journal
Practicing Anthropology Volume: 14 Issue: 3 Dated: (Summer 1992) Pages: 13- 16
Date Published
1992
Length
4 pages
Annotation
Interviews of 32 male inmates housed in a separate AIDS unit in Trenton State Prison in Trenton, N.J. were used to clarify the context and needs of these inmates related to HIV issues, as well as the role of anthropology in identifying and addressing the issues.
Abstract
The interviews lasted 3-5 hours each and took place over a period of 6 months in 1989 and 1990. Inmates provided additional information in brief informal contacts and discussions 20-90 minutes long. The results revealed four main issues: health care, human rights, psychosocial issues, and HIV education and prevention. Inadequacy of health care was a common theme; prisoners with HIV/AIDS reported medical neglect and increased distrust following the diagnosis of AIDS. Inmates diagnosed with HIV were often denied privileges and access to programs that are available to inmates who have not been diagnosed. The goal of rehabilitation was abandoned, and the segregated unit became a place where people are stored to die. Much of the discrimination and difficulties result from widespread ignorance and misinformation among both inmates and staff. Anthropologists can be useful in developing education and prevention programs by bringing into focus the context in which risk behaviors take place and the need for culturally sensitive education and prevention programs. Tables and photograph