4150.0: Tuesday, October 23, 2001 - Board 3

Abstract #26436

Using stages of change in HIV risk reduction for Latino MSM

Eduardo R. Archuleta, Julio C. Rodríguez, Michael Buitrón, Alfredo Reyes, and Grace L. Reynolds, MPA. Center for Behavioral Research and Services, California State University Long Beach--Center for Behavioral Research and Services, 1090 Atlantic Avenue, Long Beach, CA 90813, (562) 495-2330, earchule@csulb.edu

Listo para acción, a program funded by the County of Los Angeles, has been in effect since 1997 in the City of Long Beach. Participants are recruited for workshops from local nightclubs, community-based organizations, and public sex environments that cater to Spanish-speaking Latino MSM. Six different workshops are conducted over six consecutive weeks. The second workshop ACaliente y Seguro@ (Hot and Safe) includes discussions on how to diminish the HIV risk of particular sexual activities and confronts HIV transmission myths and misconceptions. Afterwards, staff explains the stages-of-change model using five Spanish-language cards that list the stages, along with a common name, and a commonly used phrase describing each stage. Participants are given a list of eleven possible risk reduction behaviors and are asked to Astage@ themselves for each behavior. Participants are then asked to select a behavior they are willing to modify.

A work-sheet is distributed on which participants list their chosen behavior, current stage, first step, possible barriers, and ways to overcome barriers. Each participant is then given a wallet card on which they write their goal and their first step. They are asked to carry it as a reminder until the next meeting. This presentation explains the efficiency of an established behavior change model that can be translated and adapted for different populations. Employed delivery strategies will be described and evaluated.

Learning Objectives: Participants will understand how the Transtheoretical Model (stages-of-change) may be incorporated into a culturally relevant risk-reduction group intervention for Latino men who have sex with men (MSM).

Keywords: Latino, Gay Men

Presenting author's disclosure statement:
Organization/institution whose products or services will be discussed: None
I do not have any significant financial interest/arrangement or affiliation with any organization/institution whose products or services are being discussed in this session.

The 129th Annual Meeting of APHA