Skills-Training Group Intervention Model to Assist Persons in Reducing Risk Behaviors for HIV Infection

• NCJ Number: 126483
• Journal: AIDS Education and Prevention Volume: 2 Issue: 3 Dated: (Spring 1990) Pages: 24-35
• Author(s): J A Kelly; J S St. Lawrence; R Betts; T L Brasfield; H V Hood
• Date Published: 1990
• Length: 10 pages
• Grant Number(s): 1-R01-MH41800
• Sponsoring Agency: National Institute of Mental Health
• Publication Format: Article
• Publication Type: Survey
• Language: English
• Country: United States of America

Annotation

This paper evaluates the impact of a study that teaches homosexual males participating in high-risk sexual activities the behavioral skills to reduce the risk of transmission of HIV infection.

Abstract

Fifteen participants in the study attended seven group-sessions covering risk education, training in self-management skills, assertiveness training, and social and lifestyle issues. In addition, participants provided information for pre- and post intervention assessments covering AIDS risk knowledge, on sexual practices over 4-month retrospective periods, and on self-monitoring records of ongoing sexual activities and participation in role plays assessing behavioral assertiveness skills for resisting high-risk coercions. An 8-month follow up was conducted. Following intervention, the participants reported substantial changes, including high proportion of condom use; a marked decrease in risky activities with multiple partners; and maintenance of change at follow-up. These results indicate the usefulness of this group intervention model for counseling persons in risk-behavior reduction. 1 table, 2 figures, and 18 references (Author abstract modified)