ABSTRACT
As we enter the second decade of the human immunodeficiency virus (HIV) epidemic, many challenges arise; one of the foremost centers on the adolescent community. The sexual and drug activities associated with increased prevalence of HIV infection often begin during adolescence. Hence the epidemic of acquired immune deficiency syndrome (AIDS) poses a significant threat to this population. However, HIV research, prevention, and service programs frequently fail to address the unique needs of this critical group (Hein, 1991a). With educational attention principally directed to children or adults, adolescents, who are neither big children nor small adults, often are not reached through traditional venues.
