Document 2183
 DOCN  M94A2183
 TI    Emotional support groups for AIDS affected special groups: immigrants
       with language barriers in the USA.
 DT    9412
 AU    Goldvarg D
 SO    Int Conf AIDS. 1994 Aug 7-12;10(1):362 (abstract no. PD0053). Unique
       Identifier : AIDSLINE ICA10/94370392
 AB    ISSUE: Limited information is available regarding the implementation and
       effects of support groups for minorities, especially immigrants who have
       language barriers. This oral presentation relays AIDS project Los
       Angeles' model for support groups targeted at special populations to
       potential group facilitators and participants in order to better
       understand how and why support groups are improving the quality of life
       of minority people with AIDS. METHODOLOGY: A quality assurance survey
       form was completed anonymously by a self selected group of 40 PWA's who
       attend the support groups for people with language barriers (monolingual
       Spanish speaking). RESULTS: The quality assurance program showed that
       support groups helped 80% of the members to cope better with HIV related
       concerns, 75% responded that the group helped them by offering emotional
       support, 90% stated that the group allowed them to express their
       emotions freely, especially about issues that they are not able to talk
       with family members. CONCLUSIONS: The quality assurance program showed
       that support groups contributed in decreasing the participants'
       isolation by providing a safe and culturally sensitive environment to
       share experiences. It also showed how support groups encouraged members
       to be more proactive and to develop coping skills in order to increase
       their quality of life.
 DE    Acquired Immunodeficiency Syndrome/*PSYCHOLOGY  Adaptation,
       Psychological  *Communication Barriers  *Emigration and Immigration
       Human  Minority Groups  *Social Support  United States  MEETING ABSTRACT

       SOURCE: National Library of Medicine.  NOTICE: This material may be
       protected by Copyright Law (Title 17, U.S.Code).