Ethnographic issues in the study of AIDS

The purpose of this article is to examine ethnographic methodologies (and the conceptual frame used to define and apply such methodologies) relevant to the global study of AIDS. Included for consideration are participant observation, category systems, interviewer bias, formal/informal language and developmental perspective. As an illustration of ethnographic methodology, the present article also examines the significance of such methods within the Chicago Women and Children with AIDS Project.

Key words:

• AIDS
• ethnography