SOCIAL CLASS OR"CULTURE:" ETHICAL CONCERNS OF WOMEN WITH LIVING WITH AIDS
The term "culturally-sensitive" is used commonly in the HIV/AIDS literature without definition or explanation of its implication. Researchers using this terminology presume a consistency or homogeneity within described groups that presupposes an influence on an individual’s behaviors regarding HIV transmission, treatment regimes and decision-making. In addition, legislative policy concerning HIV, like those enacted in New York State, are based on similar interpretations of groups affected by HIV/AIDS.
Anthropologists have suggested that "very little has been done to spell out the relationships between knowledge and power people experience in different class positions and the ethical values they apply when they enter the realm of biomedicine"(Levin and Glick Schiller 1998: 41). In addition, recent analysis of the concept of culture includes historical, ideological and power relationships, "What comes to be called "culture" covers a vast stock of material inventories, behaviors, and mental representations, put in motion by many kinds of social actors, who are diversified into genders, generations, occupations, and ritual memberships" (Wolf 1999:66).
This paper employs anthropological ethnographic research about women who are members of Life Force: Women Fighting HIV, a community-based organization in Brooklyn, New York. Life Force provides peer education through a comprehensive explanation of AIDS prevention techniques and risk reduction practices. Based on interviews and focus groups, this paper presents peer educator’s ethical concerns about HIV teaching and prevention, AIDS policy and the cultural representation of women with AIDS.
Learning Objectives: At the conclusion of the session, the participants will be able to identify ethical concerns of women with HIV, assess the use of social class an an descriptor of HIV/AIDS health issues
Keywords: HIV/AIDS, Social Class
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.