The effects of aids education on the knowledge and attitudes of community leaders

The present study investigated the effects of AIDS education seminars on the knowledge and attitudes of a group of community religious leaders. Participants were 631 members of the Chicago Archdiocese community, including pastors, school administrators, and school nurses. Participants attended one of eight full‐day seminars focusing on medical and psychological issues related to AIDS and preparatory to the implementation of an Archdiocese education program. Participants completed pre‐ and post‐questionnaires assessing knowledge and concerns regarding AIDS. Results indicate a significant increase in knowledge about AIDS and a significant decrease in perceptions of risks. Participants also reported significant decreases in anxiety and increased willingness to work with persons with AIDS. These findings suggest that education can be effective in influencing attitudes and calming fears, at least on a short‐term basis.