Related Experiment Video
Updated: Aug 7, 2026

Comprehensive & Cost Effective Laboratory Monitoring of HIV/AIDS: an African Role Model
Published on: October 31, 2010
Promoting AIDS risk reduction via behavioral training
L R Franzini1, L M Sideman, K E Dexter
1Department of Psychology, San Diego State University, CA 92182-0551.
Abstract:
The present study employed behavioral techniques to teach assertive strategies designed to reduce the risk of contracting AIDS and to promote "safer-sex" behaviors. A total of 79 university students (38 male and 41 female) were included in the final data analysis. Subjects participated in three one-hour training sessions which included live modeling of assertive interactions, role-playing, behavior shaping, corrective feedback, verbal reinforcement, assertiveness training, and an AIDS educational lecture. Dependent measures included ratings of the key components of assertive behavior from videotaped role-plays at pre- and posttests. Behavioral training had a positive effect on participants' assertive behavior. On the role-play ratings, experimental subjects were rated higher on overall assertiveness than the controls. Even brief behaviorally based educational interventions can produce increases in assertive behaviors known to be related to AIDS prevention, for example, insisting on condom use and requesting information about a prospective partner's sexual and drug use histories. Behavior changes extended to in vivo situations, of course, remain less assured.
Related Concept Videos
Retrovirus Life Cycles
Behavior Modification
A real-world application of operant conditioning principles is applied...
Behavior Therapy
Exposure therapy is a cornerstone of behavioral treatment for anxiety disorders. It involves systematic exposure to feared stimuli, either in real...
Operant Conditioning Intervention
In operant conditioning, behaviors that are...
Modeling in Therapy
Participant Modeling
Participant modeling involves therapists demonstrating calm and effective behaviors in situations...
Amebiasis

