Recent studies have suggested that stable characteristics may be present among those individuals living with HIV that do not continue engaging in high-risk sexual behaviors. However, there continues to be a need for the identification of such correlates and the subsequent development of HIV prevention programs that target HIV positive individuals. Data were collected over the course of one year among individuals (n=63) who were co-enrolled in a formal recovery program and an HIV risk reduction group psychotherapy intervention. Data were analyzed to identify the correlates associated with maintaining low-risk sexual behaviors during the 60-day period preceding enrollment into the study. Results indicated that individuals who reported maintaining low-risk behaviors were more likely to not be in a relationship (X2=4.62, p<.05), to be enrolled in primary medical care (X2=5.21, p<.05), and to be heterosexual (X2=3.54, p<.05). These data provide support for the notion that HIV prevention programs can be integrated into a system of care for individuals living with HIV, particularly those associated with primary medical care. The implications of the identification of behavioral correlates such as those suggested by this data will be discussed and suggestions for incorporating the findings into the continued development of interventions to maintain low-risk behaviors among HIV infected individuals will be discussed. Participants will understand the unique nature of conducting interventions for those individuals already committed to avoiding both the infection of sexual partners, re-infection, and exposure to sexually transmitted diseases and other infections.
Learning Objectives: 1. Participants will be able to identify at least three characteristics of maintaining low-risk behaviors among HIV positive individuals. 2. Participants will be able to identify at least five program components supportive of low-risk behavior maintenance for intervention enrollees in the context of recovery
Keywords: HIV Risk Behavior, Mental Health
Presenting author's disclosure statement:
Organization/institution whose products or services will be discussed: Positive Impact, Inc. (Non-Profit Mental Health Center in Atlanta, GA)
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.