The AIDS epidemic: professional and personal concerns of graduate social work students in field placement

Social work educators and health care practitioners have been increasingly concerned about the cognitive and affective preparation of graduate students for practice with AIDS-related issues. A pilot study of students from six graduate schools of social work was conducted in an effort to address these concerns. This article focuses on the affective experiences of students who worked with AIDS in field placement. The study questionnaire provided information about: (1) the concerns of students working with AIDS populations; (2) the nature and effectiveness of the help students required in coping with concerns; and (3) students' recommendations for future AIDS-related field placements. Study findings revealed that while the frequency of reported concerns was low overall, those concerns elicited revolved around clients' reactions, and knowledge and skills for practice. Students sought diverse resources for support in coping with their concerns, but other professionals and staff groups in field placement were the most helpful resources. A large percentage of students at least conditionally recommended future AIDS-related field placements. Recommendations for field education in health settings are offered.