NCJ Number
147388
Journal
International Journal of the Addictions Volume: 29 Issue: 3 Dated: (1994) Pages: 361-386
Date Published
1994
Length
26 pages
Annotation
An AIDS prevention training program for parolees recently released from prison with histories of drug injection was developed and evaluated.
Abstract
Project ARRIVE (AIDS Risk Reduction for IV Drug Users on Parole) was funded between September 1987 and December 1990. The ARRIVE model incorporated principles and techniques useful with substance-abusing populations in other settings. A social-learning approach to prevention training emphasized learning skills to help parolees resist relapse to drug use. A self-help orientation encouraged participants to accept responsibility for their own behavior and recognize their potential to change their behavior and environment. The ARRIVE model also applied principles that have been successfully used in therapeutic community programs. ARRIVE offered participants job preparation and placement assistance for entry-level employment in the AIDS education/outreach field. Program elements were combined into a structured eight-week, 24-session AIDS prevention program. A total of 394 persons were recruited from New York State prisons, community agencies, and self-referral. To assess program outcomes, the evaluation conducted follow-up interviews with program graduates and all eligible parolees who did not participate in ARRIVE. The interviews, which were conducted 1 year after program completion, focused on changes in AIDS knowledge, beliefs, and attitudes about risk reduction, AIDS risk behaviors, and social adjustment. A total of 394 eligible parolees (81 percent male, 19 percent female) were recruited, of whom 241 attended the program; 164 completed the program. The evaluation showed that ARRIVE participation significantly decreased certain sexual and drug-related risk behaviors and improved parolees' community adjustment. 10 tables and 39 references