Perceptions of AIDS in Prisons: Relevance in Developing Educational Strategies (From HIV/AIDS and Prisons: Proceedings of a Conference Held 19-21 November 1990, P 221-232, 1991, Jennifer Norberry, Matt Gaughwin, et al. -- See NCJ-132465)

• NCJ Number: 132474
• Author(s): H Close
• Date Published: 1991
• Length: 12 pages
• Sale Source: Australian Institute of Criminology
• Publication Type: Survey
• Language: English
• Country: Australia

Annotation

Interviews of 201 inmates, 210 prison guards, and 50 other correctional personnel in the 7 prisons in an Australian capital city gathered information regarding knowledge and concerns on HIV and AIDS in correctional facilities and effective methods of AIDS prevention.

Abstract

The interviews were conducted by individuals trained in market research. They lasted 35-45 minutes each and used a semi-structured questionnaire. Results showed that AIDS was discussed more by correctional staff than by inmates, but that the majority of both groups wanted more information on AIDS. In addition, more officers are afraid of contracting AIDS than are prisoners, but prisoners are more afraid than officers and other staff believe. All groups regarded small discussion groups with an external expert or the use of a video as the most effective way to educate inmates about AIDS prevention; inmates were much less likely than correctional personnel to consider comics to be a good way to disseminate information. Results also indicated the need for a case-by-case approach to the management of HIV-positive individuals and that an educational program should be conducted before eliminating a policy of segregating these individuals. Findings also showed the need to include the views of all affected groups in developing an effective educational strategy. Tables, figure, and 10 references