Preventing the spread of Acquired Immune Deficiency Syndrome (AIDS) among women is a national priority. In the United States, AIDS is the sixth leading cause of death among young adult women, and their rate of infection is four times higher than men. This article was developed to help stimulate interest in the power dynamics of relationships and…

Describes levels of human immunodeficiency virus (HIV) knowledge, condom use, self-efficacy, and intentions to practice HIV-safe behaviors among 52 young incarcerated African-American males. Although overall knowledge and intent to practice safe sex were moderate, transmission knowledge was low. Peer and subjective norms support condom use. (SLD)

Reports that by the end of 1987, nearly 50,000 cases of acquired immune deficiency syndrome (AIDS) had been reported in the United States since 1981, with 20,745 in 1987 alone. Discusses the disordinate proportion of cases involving black and Hispanic adults and children. (TW)

Articles in this special issue are devoted to psychosocial aspects of Acquired Immune Deficiency Syndrome (AIDS) prevention in the African-American community. The core assumption is that the values, beliefs, and world views of people of African descent must be understood for AIDS prevention to be effective. (SLD)

Provides an overview of the history of Acquired Immune Deficiency Syndrome (AIDS) in the United States. Surveillance data are given for several groups of African Americans, including women and men who have sex with men. AIDS cumulative incidence among African Americans in the next several years is projected. (SLD)

An African-American researcher is spearheading a black biomedical research movement to urge more African Americans to investigate the health issues affecting their communities. His research focuses on the acquired immune deficiency syndrome (AIDS) virus, but he is encouraging general expansion of the black researcher population. (MSE)

Examined factors predicting the context of HIV-related sexual behaviors in African American women. Surveys investigated demographics; sexual history, behavior, attitudes, risk, and communication; drug use; contraception; and risk reduction efforts since Magic Johnson's HIV disclosure. Demographics, sexual communication, and past sexual experiences…

Acquired Immune Deficiency Syndrome (AIDS) is undisputedly the most significant public health problem facing the Black community today. From the outset, it was apparent that the disease disproportionately affected Blacks. In 1981, when AIDS was first identified, 21.5 percent of the first 107 cases were Blacks and Hispanics. This report discusses…

Investigated whether living in a supportive family was an HIV/STD-protective factor for at-risk African American adolescent girls. Surveys supported the association between living in perceived supportive families and HIV/STD protective benefits. Supportive families enhanced girls' confidence in their ability to negotiate condom use and helped them…

Epidemiological data on patterns of infection among adolescents, including data on ethnic, racial, and gender differences, are reviewed. Comparisons to patterns of adult infection are made. Patterns of risky behavior that leave youth at risk for HIV infection are discussed. Implications for prevention and treatment are considered. (BC)

Explores hindrances to sustaining African-American mobilization against Acquired Immune Deficiency Syndrome (AIDS). Major obstacles include the following: (1) objective conditions; (2) attitudes toward sexuality; (3) perceptions about substance abuse and AIDS; and (4) conflicting policy views. Public health education has not been sufficient in the…

Compared 2 interventions (n=90) designed to reduce risk of human immunodeficiency virus infection among African Americans. Each group received information on biological and psychological aspects of human sexuality and disease, with experimental group additionally receiving communication and problem-solving skills training. The experimental group…

Focus groups were conducted with African-American women aged 18 to 25 years to explore communications about Acquired Immune Deficiency Syndrome (AIDS) and barriers to negotiation of condom use. Findings suggest that prevention tailored to African-American women should emphasize training in sexual negotiation, conflict resolution, and refusal…

Discusses ways in which selected factors limit human immunodeficiency virus (HIV) prevention efforts in African-American communities, focusing on the stigma associated with Acquired Immune Deficiency Syndrome (AIDS), reliance on traditional models of health, and the lack of funding for needed services and research. (SLD)

More than 25 percent of those who have the Acquired Immune Deficiency Syndrome (AIDS) virus are African American, and, in large urban areas, the disease is a leading cause of death, especially among black women. AIDS education is vital to supplement health care efforts in the black community. (SLD)