HIV and AIDS Knowledge Among High-Risk Chinese Adolescents in Hong Kong

The purpose of this study was to assess HIV/AIDS knowledge among male and female high-risk adolescents in Hong Kong and to assess the impact of an HIV/AIDS awareness program. The intervention involved an intensive seven-hour program about HIV/AIDS which utilized interactive learning techniques within small groups. The participants included 127 (50 male and 77 female) Chinese adolescents between 13 to 16 years of age residing in group homes for juvenile delinquents in Hong Kong. Findings revealed that participants rated themselves as having significantly more knowledge after the HIV/AIDS program as compared to before the program. Findings also revealed that the intervention resulted in significant changes in HIV/AIDS knowledge regarding modes of transmission, facts and personal vulnerability; however, participants reported no significant attitudinal change toward HIV/AIDS. Over 70% of participants stated that the program changed their perceptions of HIV/AIDS and that they would practice safer sex in the future. Implications for HIV/AIDS education are discussed.