Abstract
Asian Pacific Islander Americans are one of the fastest growing segments in the US population. Many adolescents and young adults of Asian Pacific Islander American heritage, as with peers of other racial and ethnic backgrounds, do not perceive themselves as vulnerable to sexually transmitted diseases, including HIV/AIDS. They engage in unsafe sexual behaviors that place them at-risk of infection. The information in this article addresses the perceptions of young Asian Pacific Islander Americans about HIV/AIDS, characteristics of culturally competent prevention programs, and instructional approaches and strategies that complement the unique cultural, linguistic, and family-related values of Asian Pacific Islander Americans.