NCJ Number
145211
Date Published
1990
Length
0 pages
Annotation
This video portrays a group of inmates discussing issues in the management of HIV infection to reduce the chances of the infection becoming full-blown AIDS; separate videos for male and female groups have minor differences related to gender differences.
Abstract
Intended as a tool in counseling HIV-infected inmates, the group session, guided by a professional counselor, begins with the group discussing the difference between HIV infection and full-blown AIDS. The discussion becomes the basis for subsequent group topics that deal with the management of HIV infection so that the risk of AIDS is reduced. The group talks about the importance of nutrition, exercise, stress management, safer sexual activity, and avoidance of drug abuse. These healthful practices decrease the likelihood that a serious illness will overwhelm the immune system, which is weakened by the HIV infection. Group members also consider the danger of reinfection that may introduce into the body another strain of HIV infection or aggravate the existing infection. Safer sexual activity and avoidance of the use of "dirty" drug-use apparatus are cited as the primary ways to avoid reinfection. Inmates converse about the pros and cons of telling sexual partners, family, and friends about their HIV infection. Most inmates favor responsible and selective disclosure that promotes the health of others and their own health. The counselor encourages inmates to maintain contact with health providers and support groups after they are released from the institution.