Activity 12: AIDS problem situations

Objective:

• To spark discussion/thought in problem solving on AIDS related topics.

Target Group:

• Secondary students and adults

Materials:

• Copies of "Problem Situations" and "Form for Solving Problems" for all participants, or write on flip chart or chalkboard where everyone can read easily.

Directions:

• Explain that in this activity we will do two things:

- examine and discuss some common questions about AIDS transmission

- learn how to look for solutions by using a four-step process.

• Ask participants to read the situations on the "AIDS Problem Situations" list and choose one they would like to work on.

• Ask participants to divide into three groups based on the situation they have chosen to solve. Groups should be about the same size. If not, invite a few people to change groups.

• Using the "Form for Solving Problems," participants should try to solve their problem by following the four-step process. This may be done as a group or each individual may fill out the form, sharing the results with the small group afterwards.

• After sufficient time for small group discussion, a spokesperson from each small group can make a brief presentation to the entire group, describing the process and the solution reached.

AIDS PROBLEM SITUATIONS

1. Supap hasn't had sex with anyone, but she shoots intravenous drugs with her friends. Since reading that AIDS can be passed by sharing IV drug needles and syringes, she wonders if she has gotten the AIDS virus.

2. Porntip dates Somgiet, and they often have sex. Porntip doesn't have sex with others but she thinks that Somgiet does. Porntip also believes that Somgiet may have had sex with someone at increased risk for AIDS. Neither has taken the AIDS antibody test to determine if they have been exposed to the AIDS virus. Porntip wants to continue having sex with Somgiet but isn't sure what can be done to prevent exposure to the AIDS virus.

3. Mayuree works very hard to maintain good health. She reads about all aspects of health so that she can know the best preventive health practices. Mayuree has received a little information in school about AIDS, but doesn't feel it was enough. She wants to learn more about AIDS and keep current in the future.

FORM FOR SOLVING PROBLEMS

Following the steps in this decision-making process can help you discover the best solutions to most problems. Use this process to help solve the AIDS problem situation you have chosen.

Check the AIDS problem situation you want to solve: 1__ 2__ 3__

Directions:

• After reading the problem situation on the "AIDS Problem Situations" list, answer the questions below.

1. What is THE PROBLEM?

2. What are THE IMPORTANT FACTS about the situation?

3. What are THE BEST POSSIBLE ACTIONS?

4. What is THE BEST SOLUTION?

From: The Ohio Public Schools AIDS Manual