NCJ Number
143096
Date Published
1991
Length
8 pages
Annotation
This paper presents the methodology and results of a survey of HIV-infected inmates in the British prison system; an analysis of survey findings draws implications for the future work and roles of psychologists within the prison system.
Abstract
Of the 56 HIV-infected inmates recorded as being in the prison system at the end of January 1991, 31 were interviewed by the researcher. Of the remainder who could be traced from the monthly record, 17 had been discharged, one was too ill to participate, and six declined to be interviewed. This report of survey findings focuses on experiences of being tested for HIV in prison, the consequences of being tested, prison-based medical and counseling interventions, restrictions on those with HIV in prison, prisoners' ratings of care and necessary improvements, and the most pressing needs of inmates with HIV. Regarding the implications of the findings for prison psychologists, they indicate that, in many cases, adequate pretest counseling is not being provided. Similarly, posttest followup and psychosocial monitoring need improvement. The range and nature of inmates' emotional and behavioral reactions to a positive test and inmates' general feeling of staff inattentiveness suggests that proactive intervention by psychologists may not only save lives but also help to defuse tensions and resentments among those who are having to cope with HIV infection and all its associated meanings for health and mortality. Psychologists should also research the nature of high-risk behaviors in prison, not only to prevent the spread of AIDS in prison, but also to determine relevant content for education and training packages.