Regional training in AIDS prevention for health and behavioural science leaders in north-eastern Brazil.
This article reports results of a World AIDS Foundation-funded training programme in North-Eastern Brazil. Training objectives were: (1) to increase the effectiveness of existing medical and behavioural HIV-related services; (2) to prepare professionals to implement and evaluate social skills-based AIDS prevention programmes incorporating metacontingency systems; (3) to prepare professionals to disseminate training content in North-Eastern Brazil; and (4) to promote local involvement in regional AIDS programme planning. Fifty-eight health and behavioural sciences leaders from 5 North-Eastern Brazilian states represented a variety of institutions actually or potentially involved in AIDS prevention. Training activities focused on programme planning and evaluation and social skills training. Written pre- and post-test data indicate that all participants had a basic understanding of AIDS transmission at baseline. Significant knowledge increases (p < 0.01) resulted in all domains trained except for programme evaluation. For the two social skills evaluated (Condom Use Negotiation and Social Skills Trainer), significant improvements (p < 0.01) resulted in verbal and non-verbal content, assertiveness and anxiety, with the exception of near-significant levels (p < 0.10) achieved for assertiveness and anxiety on the 'Trainer' skill. Participants cofacilitated follow-up trainings in their respective states. These trainings demonstrated a successful model for technology transfer. More focused training is needed in programme design and evaluation methods.
Sipan
C L
CL
Center for Behavioral Epidemiology, Graduate School of Public Health, San Diego State University, La Mesa, California 92182, USA.
Hovell
M F
MF
Blumberg
E J
EJ
Hinrichsen
S L
SL
Dubeux
C R
CR
D000163:Acquired Immunodeficiency Syndrome / Q000517:prevention & control*; D000293:Adolescent; D000328:Adult; D001938:Brazil; D002983:Clinical Competence; D003479:Curriculum; D004521:Educational Measurement; D005260:Female; D006266:Health Education; D006281:Health Occupations / Q000193:education*; D006285:Health Planning; D006801:Humans; D008297:Male; D008875:Middle Aged; D016730:Program Development; D015397:Program Evaluation; D012041:Regional Medical Programs / Q000458:organization & administration*