ABSTRACT
This chapter discusses the issues involved with victims with human immunodeficiency virus (HIV)/acquired immune deficiency syndrome (AIDS) and the problems of family violence in the military. It explains the types of victims involved when considering special victims population and the role that mental issues may play in family violence. The chapter describes the issues involved with spiritual abuse. The virus may be transmitted with contaminated blood or body fluids that come into contact with open wounds. Professionals must remember that AIDS is a medical disease that has additional social and psychological aspects. Victim service providers must not only understand HIV/AIDS but also be able to relate to specific victim populations that might be exposed to the disease. Violence related to HIV covers a wide spectrum of acts, including simple verbal abuse, harassment, job discrimination, and actual physical attacks. Crime against persons with developmental and other severe disabilities is a problem similar to other forms of violence.
