Effective HIV Prevention Interventionsfor Adolescents and Young Adults

The increase in HIV infection among young people has raised serious questions about the effectiveness of HIV prevention interventions for this population group. Empirical research has demonstrated that a theoretical base can enhance the effectiveness of prevention programs for adolescents and young adults. This paper has two main objectives: (1) to identify selected theoretical constructs and principles that have been found to be helpful in developing effective HIV prevention interventions; and (2) to relate critical constructs and principles to effective interventions for adolescents and young adults. This kind of information will help to plan, develop, and implement more effective prevention strategies and interventions for these high-risk target groups.