The Relationship of Social Networks to HIV Risk Behaviors From a Sample of Probationers in a Randomized Trial

Abstract

The authors examined HIV risk behaviors and the role of social networks among a subpopulation at-risk-for HIV, drug-involved probationers. Offenders volunteered to participate in a randomized clinical trial devoted to testing models of access to treatment. Results indicate HIV positive persons in social networks did not deter this sample from participating in HIV risk behaviors. Because positive associates did not influence HIV risk behaviors, engagement in these behaviors may not be a function of their network per se. Therefore, efforts to curtail HIV risk among probationers may be better directed toward the individual, and not the self-reported, associates.