NCJ Number
114205
Date Published
1988
Length
205 pages
Annotation
Written for counselors and caregivers of people with AIDS and at risk for the disease, this book provides medical information on AIDS and associated risk behaviors and gives guidelines for intervention methods designed to change behavior and to address psychological and social issues.
Abstract
The text explains the incidence and demography of AIDS, its medical characteristics, and diseases associated with it. Transmission and risk factors are discussed with respect to risk behavior among homosexual or bisexual males, risk behavior among heterosexuals, behaviors that reduce risk, and the indications that casual contact does not spread the disease. Guidelines are also given for risk-reduction counseling for individuals and groups and information programs and other interventions at the community level. Positive blood test results for the human immunodeficiency virus are discussed in terms of their psychosocial consequences and their implications for psychosocial interventions. The psychosocial care needs of persons with AIDS and the components of effective help-giving are also explained. An appended list of resource organizations, an index, and 428 references.