Alcohol Use and HIV Risk Among Impoverished Women

Project Summary:
Coming soon.

Project Description:
In this four year project based in Los Angeles County, we have used qualitative and quantitative techniques to increase our understanding of the social context surrounding impoverished women's use of alcohol and other drugs and their decisions to engage in risky or protective sexual behaviors with male partners. We define the social context in terms of specific sexual events with partners and the women's personal networks of individuals they know in the community. By attending to the social context in which behaviors occur, and by investigating the attitudes and beliefs that support those behaviors, the study is providing a richer understanding of the relationship between substance use and HIV risk among impoverished women. This knowledge, in turn, will enhance intervention efforts for women.

Project Investigator(s):
Suzanne Wenzel

Research Period: 06/01/09 - 05/31/10

Funding Source: RAND Corporation/ National Institute of Drug Abuse

Total Award Amount: $ 266,151