Preliminary data will be presented for an efficacy trial of peer mentoring for young adolescents at risk for HIV and substance abuse. This program, which is operated by an inner-city community-based AIDS outreach organization, relies on trained older adolescents to function as peer mentors for younger mentees. Under adult supervision, peer mentors 1) co-facilitate support groups for mentees; 2) arrange and conduct weekend excursions and activities; and 3) provide guidance, advice and support to mentees throughout the week via individual and informal contacts. Starting in February 2000, study subjects (10-15 year old youths with HIV-ill parents) will be randomly assigned to the peer mentoring program (N=80) or to the agency's regular services (counseling plus referrals) (N=80). The primary behavioral outcome variables are prevention/reduction of drug/alcohol use, HIV risk behaviors, delinquent behaviors and increase in prosocial activities. Qualitative data will be presented on the delivery of the peer mentor training, which includes a 15 session manual-driven protocol, as well as process data on the mentoring relationship. This includes interpersonal continuity, modeling, empathy, behavioral reinforcement and advocacy. Preliminary data will also include the protective and risk factors and the coping adequacy (e.g., response to learning of the parent's HIV status) of the study subjects. Supported by grant No R01 HD37350-1 from NICHD.
Learning Objectives: At the conclusion of the session, the participant (learner) in this session will be able to: 1) Describe the peer mentoring program. 2) List at least three protective and three risk factors. 3) Operationally define (in the context of peer mentoring) interpersonal continuity, empathy and modelling
Keywords: Adolescents, Peer Education
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.