Before AIDS, the role of behavioral interventions in preventing transmission of sexually transmitted diseases was acknowledged in text books and journals but rarely promoted effectively in public health practice. Informed by a comprehensive knowledge of behavioral theory, intervention methods, and affected populations, the authors of this important book examine the central role of behavioral interventions in combating STDs. The book addresses the complexities and social contexts of human behaviors which spread STDs, the cultural barriers to STD education (ranging from conservative mores to “stay out of my bedroom” libertarianism), and the sociopolitical nuances surrounding treatment. Over forty contributors offer a practical appraisal of what is being done now and what can be improved, such as: an overview of current behavioral and biomedical interventions for STD prevention and control, a discussion of what works for individuals, groups, and communities, up to date thinking about such traditional prevention approaches as partner notification and health care seeking, STD prevention strategies with high-risk populations, including drug users, gay men, teenagers, incarcerated persons, and persons with repeat infections, the state of prevention technology: condoms, vaccines, the Internet, ethical, economic, and policy issues in STD prevention, applying intervention models to real-world situations, guidelines for program evaluation and improvement.
As STDs and AIDS remain top priorities for public health and private sector practitioners, researchers, and educators, “Behavioral Interventions for Prevention and Control of Sexually Transmitted Diseases” gives a long-neglected field the attention it deserves. This authoritative resource is sure to influence public health practice and policy in an ever-evolving social climate.