School-based AIDS education for adolescents

J Adolesc Health. 1995 Apr;16(4):309-15. doi: 10.1016/1054-139x(94)00091-r.

Abstract

Purpose: To describe a program which utilizes medical students and persons with AIDS (PWAs) to provide for adolescents school-based education about acquired immunodeficiency syndrome (AIDS).

Methods: Two 1.5 hour classroom sessions were conducted by medical students and persons with AIDS for seventh and eighth grade students (n = 1,161 students) at two urban middle schools. In addition, a two hour informational session was provided for parents. A 49 question student health survey was used to evaluate adolescents' HIV knowledge, tolerance of persons with AIDS, and intentions to engage in human immunodeficiency virus (HIV) safe behaviors.

Results: Significant (p < 0.01) increases in HIV knowledge and tolerance of persons with AIDS were observed, which persisted for three months. A significant (p < 0.01) improvement in intention to engage in HIV-safe behaviors was observed but did not persist for three months.

Conclusions: Medical students and persons with AIDS can provide school-based AIDS education to early adolescents.

Publication types

  • Research Support, Non-U.S. Gov't

MeSH terms

  • Acquired Immunodeficiency Syndrome / prevention & control*
  • Adolescent
  • Female
  • Health Education / methods*
  • Health Knowledge, Attitudes, Practice
  • Health Surveys
  • Humans
  • Male
  • Peer Group
  • Psychology, Adolescent
  • Schools
  • Students, Medical