Understanding HIV and AIDS: Preparing Students for Practice

Abstract

As the Acquired Immune Deficiency Syndrome (AIDS) epidemic continues to grow dramatically, social workers increasingly need solid knowledge and training to serve persons infected with the human immunodeficiency virus (HIV) and those close to them. This article summarizes current biological, epidemiological, and medical knowledge about AIDS and HIV (including methods of preventing transmission) in a format suitable for social work students. It also suggests various ways in which such information can be incorporated into BSW and MSW curricula.