Regional training in AIDS prevention for health and behavioural science leaders in north-eastern Brazil

This article reports results of a World AIDS Foundation-funded training programme in North-Eastern Brazil. Training objectives were: (1) to increase the effectiveness of existing medical and behavioural HIV-related services; (2) to prepare professionals to implement and evaluate social skills-based AIDS prevention programmes incorporating metacontingency systems; (3) to prepare professionals to disseminate training content in North-Eastern Brazil; and (4) to promote local involvement in regional AIDS programme planning. Fifty-eight health and behavioural sciences leaders from 5 North-Eastern Brazilian states represented a variety of institutions actually or potentially involved in AIDS prevention. Training activities focused on programme planning and evaluation and social skills training. Written pre- and post-test data indicate that all participants had a basic understanding of AIDS transmission at baseline. Significant knowledge increases (p < 0.01) resulted in all domains trained except for programme evaluation. For the two social skills evaluated (Condom Use Negotiation and Social Skills Trainer), significant improvements (p < 0.01) resulted in verbal and non-verbal content, assertiveness and anxiety, with the exception of near-significant levels (p < 0.10) achieved for assertiveness and anxiety on the 'Trainer' skill. Participants cofacilitated follow-up trainings in their respective states. These trainings demonstrated a successful model for technology transfer. More focused training is needed in programme design and evaluation methods.