AIDS and social work treatment: a single-system analysis

This article reports on an exploratory study that examined the efficacy of a social work intervention for people with acquired immune deficiency syndrome (AIDS) and AIDS-related complex. The intervention was based on Heimler's Human Social Functioning theory and method. A single-system design was used to analyze change due to intervention, and two instruments were used to collect data across the phases. The study was replicated with seven subjects; four completed the study, two died, and one withdrew because of physical deterioration. Results indicated that a statistically significant change occurred as a result of intervention for the subjects who completed the study. The intervention facilitated subjects' self-awareness, which led to self-help and a sense of control over their own lives.