Widdus D, Kauffman C, Reid H, Kinney J; International Conference on AIDS.

Int Conf AIDS. 1993 Jun 6-11; 9: 794 (abstract no. PO-D02-3458).

American Red Cross, Office of HIV/AIDS Education, Washington, D.C.

OBJECTIVE: To involve youth in the needs assessment process, in shaping the future directions of the youth HIV/AIDS prevention education initiative by a national organization (American National Red Cross). METHODS: Youth were involved in planning and conducting focus group discussions involving youth, analyzing the results, and making recommendations. Additional information regarding needs related to youth HIV/AIDS education was also obtained from both youth and adults through round table discussions. Focus groups and round table discussions were held at the organization's national convention. Seventy young people, ranging in age from 13 to 18, representing Red Cross chapters from 24 states throughout the United States were divided into six groups. Two facilitators for each group were assigned; groups were co-led by a youth and adult or two youth. Each group addressed two issues: scope of HIV/AIDS education within their local setting and recommendations for effective HIV/AIDS education methods with young people. Youth representatives from each group reported the results of their focus group findings with the group at-large. Following the focus groups, the facilitators met as a group to develop a composite report. During the round table discussions, youth and adults gave input through informal discussion highlighting issues and needs. Content of the discussions were recorded by youth and adults. RESULTS: Youth recommended: frank talk about sex and an opportunity to ask questions; peer-to-peer approach with adult leadership as back-up; initiation of HIV/AIDS education by age 10; education of parents; integration of HIV/AIDS into other programs; involvement of persons with HIV/AIDS in prevention education with youth; a variety of colorful products and interactive methods. Scare tactics do not work. CONCLUSION: Youth need to be involved in planning programs for youth. Their fresh ideas and insights inform program planners of their unique needs and is very valuable in the strategic planning process.

Publication Types:

• Meeting Abstracts

Keywords:

• Acquired Immunodeficiency Syndrome
• Adolescent
• Adult
• Counseling
• Demography
• Focus Groups
• HIV Infections
• HIV Seropositivity
• Health Education
• Health Planning
• Humans
• Interpersonal Relations
• Organizations
• United States
• education
• organization & administration

Other ID:

• 93337382

UI: 102206761

From Meeting Abstracts