Title: Creating environments that support peer education: experiences from HIV / AIDS-prevention in South Africa [editorial]

POPLINE Document Number: 194634

Author(s):

Campbell C

Source citation:

Health Education, 2004;104(4):197-200.

Abstract:

It is generally agreed that social environments influence the success of health education but there is less agreement about what constitutes a health-enabling community context. Focuses on the processes underlying successful peer education. Outlines a case study conducted by the author of a schools-based peer education and condom distribution programme for HIV prevention in a school setting. Identifies a number of obstacles to the development of new peer norms, youth empowerment and critical thinking that are essential preconditions for programmes success. Notes that the research conducted that one important reason for the failure of HIV-prevention programmes lies in the over-optimism of those who believe that peer education programmes can change behaviour in marginalized communities in the absence of appropriate partnerships. Programme success is unlikely without parallel efforts to create supportive social environments, through building alliances between peer educators and more influential groups. (author's)

Keywords:

South Africa
Critique
Evaluation
Case Studies
Peer Educators
Youth
Peer Groups
HIV Prevention
Health Education
Sex Education
Contraceptive Distribution
Condom Use
School-Based Services
Africa, Southern
Africa, Sub Saharan
Africa
Developing Countries
Studies
Research Methodology
Education
Age Factors
Population Characteristics
Demographic Factors
Population
Knowledge Sources
Communication
HIV Infections
Viral Diseases
Diseases
Distributional Activities
Program Activities
Programs
Organization and Administration
Risk Reduction Behavior
Behavior