Factors Influencing Black Churches' Readiness to Address HIV

This study employed a community-based participatory research approach to understand factors that influence church readiness to engage in HIV prevention and treatment activities. A convenience sample of twenty-six Black faith leaders participated in four focus groups. Data analysis was done through qualitative content analysis. 

Three themes emerged. 

• First, the pastor's blessing and authority as the church's decision-maker determines readiness to engage in HIV prevention. 
• Second, the church's purview of sexual health as part of a holistic ministry facilitates faith leader's readiness. 
• Lastly, securing financial and human resources makes it feasible for faith leaders to implement activities. 

Findings suggest HIV-related stigma alone does not explain readiness to address HIV. Participants also discussed activities their churches are equipped to handle, including HIV testing events and health fairs.

Via: http://ht.ly/S3bM3

By: Pichon LC1, Powell TW, Ogg SA, Williams AL, Becton-Odum N.
1Division of Social and Behavioral Sciences, School of Public Health, The University of Memphis, 3820 Desoto Ave, Robison Hall Room 209, Memphis, TN, USA

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