3-16: AIDS (Part 2)

Question 1

Discuss the effect of self-efficacy on risk-related behavior.

Answer 1

Gay men and adolescents who are higher in self-efficacy are more likely to use condoms and less likely to engage in anonymous sex.

Question 2

Identify the kinds of interventions that are effective at reducing risk-related behavior.

Answer 2

The interventions that are most effective at reducing risky behavior are those that focus on both technical and communication skills and that include motivational training such as goal setting, monitoring behavior, and developing self-efficacy.

Question 3

List three ways to reduce risky injection practices among IV drug users.

Answer 3

1. Provide information about AIDS transmission.
2. Offer needle exchange programs.
3. Teach IV users how to sterilize needles.

Question 4

Explain why peer-based interventions are not effective with adolescents.

Answer 4

Adolescents often try to distance themselves from peers who have HIV in an effort to control the emotional threat that such encounters may produce.

Question 5

Identify the benefits of the Internet for individuals who are HIV+.

Answer 5

Those who use the Internet in conjunction with managing their HIV status had more HIV disease knowledge and more active coping skills; engaged in more information-seeking coping; and had more social support that those not using the Internet.

Question 6

Describe the psychosocial factors that influence the rate of immune decline from AIDS.

Answer 6

Stress increases the rate of development of AIDS, as do negative self-concept and pessimism. The disease has a faster course in those who conceal their homosexual identity or inhibit themselves, although avoidant coping can be beneficial in some instances. Bereavement and depression also have adverse effects on the course of the disease.