Preadolescents' perceptions of AIDS before and after Earvin Magic Johnson's announcement.
Compared sixth graders' AIDS concerns before and after Magic Johnson announced that he tested HIV-positive. Examined perceptions of self/other vulnerability (optimistic bias) using questionnaires (Study A) and interviews (Study B). Also examined AIDS worries mentioned in open-ended interviews (Study C). Studies A and B revealed a substantial degree of optimistic bias. Study C showed that AIDS is a prime concern of school-age students, mentioned under free or context-cued conditions by about 50%. There was little detectable effect of the publicity; the sole before--after difference in three studies was one increase in self- and other-vulnerability to AIDS--an increase attributable, with marginal significance, only to girls. Discussed implications for health promotion and differences between assessment approaches.
Whalen
C K
CK
Department of Psychology and Social Behavior, University of California, Irvine 92717.
Henker
B
B
O'Neil
R
R
Hollingshead
J
J
Holman
A
A
Moore
B
B
D000163:Acquired Immunodeficiency Syndrome / Q000517:prevention & control / Q000523:psychology* / Q000635:transmission; D001294:Attitude to Health; D001490:Basketball; D002140:California; D002648:Child; D005197:Famous Persons; D005260:Female; D006679:HIV Seropositivity / Q000523:psychology* / Q000635:transmission; D006266:Health Education; D006801:Humans; D008297:Male; D012307:Risk Factors