Attitudes toward Aids, Herpes II, and Toxic Shock Syndrome: Two Years Later

Within the past two years there has been a significant increase in the number of reported cases of AIDS. There has also been a corresponding increase in attention in the media specifically to AIDS and more generally to sexually transmitted diseases and other health-related issues. The purpose of this investigation was to determine if there have now been any corresponding changes in attitudes toward diseases such as AIDS, Herpes II, and toxic shock syndrome and if any of these diseases has affected sexual activity. We were also interested in determining the relationship between homophobia and the extent of concern about these diseases. Our results suggest little change either in attitudes or in sexual behavior for the majority of our respondents. Men, particularly homosexuals, continue to be the most concerned about AIDS. Such concern affected the sexual activity of homosexual men more than that of heterosexual men and women. A low but significant correlation between homophobic attitudes and concern about AIDS and herpes was obtained. Women continue to have more concern about toxic shock syndrome than either AIDS or herpes.