NCJ Number
116309
Journal
American Psychologist Volume: 43 Issue: 11 Dated: (November 1988) Pages: 914-920
Date Published
1988
Length
7 pages
Annotation
The only way to currently control the acquired immune deficiency syndrome (AIDS) epidemic involves decreasing behaviors that put individuals at risk for AIDS and increasing the use of AIDS-preventive behavior (APB).
Abstract
This article discusses selected reference group-based social influence processes as they may relate to AIDS risk and APB. A model is proposed that suggests that when social network or reference group norms and values are inconsistent with APB, the network will engage in normative and informational social influence processes that inhibit prevention and promote risk behavior. By contrast, when network or reference group norms and values are consistent with APB, the group will exert normative and informational social influence supportive of APB, which will result in higher APB and less risk behavior. Initial data are presented that corroborate several of the assertions of the model, and there is a discussion of some of its practical implications for increasing APB and decreasing risk exposure. (Author abstract)