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The Sociology of HIV Transmission
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The Sociology of HIV Transmission


Courses:
Aids & Society

September 1995 | 176 pages | SAGE Publications Ltd
What contribution is sociology making in understanding the social and cultural context in which HIV transmission occurs? In this authoritative study, Michael Bloor provides a lucid overview of the vital contribution sociology has made and is making in the study of HIV transmission. He examines the epidemiology of the HIV epidemic in its different manifestations in the developing world and in the West, looking at sex tourism prostitution, intravenous drug users, hemophiliacs and transfusion recipients, and heterosexual and homosexual transmission. He goes on to look at reports of sociological studies of risk behavior with men who have sex with men, syringe sharing, and risk behavior in heterosexual males and females. These studies are then used to critically examine the different theoretical models of risk behavior and consider their implications for disease prevention. Drawing on the author's extensive research for illustration, this accessible volume will be essential reading for scholars, researchers, and students in medical sociology, health studies, sexuality, and family studies. It will also prove highly informative to health and social work practitioners working in areas related to AIDS, health promotion, health education, and sex education. "There are many myths floating around concerning the transmission of AIDS with finger pointing at such individuals as gays, drug injectors, black Africans, and others. The media feeds on these myths and as a result education to all individual about AIDS becomes difficult. This book aims to contest those myths by providing an overview or summary statement of our very considerable contemporary knowledge of the sociology of HIV transmission. . . . An excellent book to ponder over and a required book for anyone doing sociological research concerning AIDS. Highly recommended for all academic and medical libraries." --AIDS Book Review Journal

 
Introduction
 
The Epidemic of HIV Infection in the Developing World
 
The Epidemic of HIV Infection in the Developed World
 
Sociological Studies of Risk Behaviour
 
Theories of Risk Behaviour
 
Conclusion

`For those who need an update on HIV/AIDS research this is a very welcome, informative text on the core issues in transmission and risk.... Bloor's ability to discuss the various theories of risk behaviour in relation to his research amongst Glasgow male prostitutes makes rewarding reading. Apart from the comprehensive view of HIV transmission the application of the phenomenological approach and specifically Schutz's systems of relevances as a "heuristic device for the ordering of a range of cognitive activity" is illuminating.... One further point is to do with the utility of the book. Extracts have been read b y students I have taught and as a teaching text the book seems to stimulate discussion and debate. It is written in an unlaboured language and can be recommended to a wide readership' - Medical Sociology News

`[An} interesting and well-written study' - Choice

`[A] well-documented book... An excellent book to ponder over and a required book for anyone doing sociological research concerning AIDS. Highly recommended for all academic and medical libraries' - AIDS Book Review Journal

Select a Purchasing Option


Hardcover
ISBN: 9780803987494
$210.00

Paperback
ISBN: 9780803987500
$70.00