ARRIVE: an AIDS education/relapse prevention model for high-risk parolees

An AIDS prevention training program for parolees recently released from prison with histories of drug injection was developed and evaluated. Key program elements included: a social learning approach to prevention which emphasized resistance skills training; a self-help orientation stressing individual responsibility; therapeutic community principles such as credible role models and community building; and job readiness training for the AIDS prevention/outreach field. A total of 394 eligible parolees (81% male, 19% female) were recruited, of whom 241 attended the program, including 164 completers. One year follow-up results showed that ARRIVE participation significantly decreased certain sexual and drug-related risk behaviors and improved parolees' community adjustment.