THE CHALLENGE OF HIV PREVENTION AMONG HIGH-RISK ADOLESCENTS

This article reports findings from an exploratory study of HIV knowled ge and risk behaviors among 60 teenagers and young men engaged in the street life of Hollywood, California. The sample was composed largely of youths of homosexual or bisexual orientation who were substance abu sers, prostitutes, or both. The data suggest that although community-b ased education efforts may be associated with lower-risk behavior amon g this population, the overall risk profiles of these socially margina lized youths remained high. Inferences are drawn about the cofactors o f risk that must be addressed and the education needed to enhance the health prospects of these youths.