RESUMEN
This study examined how individual differences in personality style influenced children's receptivity to HIV primary prevention. Prior to taking part in a HIV prevention program, 123 fifth graders from an ethnically diverse inner city school district were administered the Weinberger Adjustment Inventory (WAI) and scales measuring HIV-related beliefs, attitudes, and knowledge. The HIV scales were readministered at the conclusion of the program. WAI groups (formed by contrasting dimensions of restraint and distress) were found to differ significantly on measures of knowledge about HIV, HIV-related fears, safe behavior attitudes, and risk behavior at pre-test. The intervention's impact, as reflected in scale change scores, did not show significant differences among WAI groups. Although subtle differences were evident among groups, findings suggest that HIV primary prevention programs may be equally effective among children with differing degrees of self-restraint and distress.
RESUMEN
During the spring and summer of 1989, all members of the American Academy of Child and Adolescent Psychiatry in nine states were sent questionnaires to determine the extent of child and adolescent psychiatrists' human immunodeficiency virus (HIV)-related knowledge, experience, comfort in working with HIV patients, and opinions regarding perceived educational needs about HIV. The response rate was 54% (N = 511). Two-thirds of the respondents indicated they had treated or had consulted on an HIV-infected patient. Most psychiatrists indicated reasonable comfort in working with HIV patients. Knowledge about HIV was found to be variable. Results suggest that child psychiatrists are engaging in HIV-related activities in all parts of the country, and further information or education would be welcomed by a majority of Academy members, particularly at nationally sponsored events.