Psychosocial Responses of Hospital Workers to Acquired Immune Deficiency Syndrome (AIDS)¹

Abstract

To assess the psychosocial responses of hospital workers to acquired immune deficiency syndrome (AIDS), 237 hospital employees were interviewed. Information was obtained on frequency and nature of contact with AIDS patients; knowledge about AIDS; attitudes about AIDS and about homosexuality; and stresses related to AIDS care. Four indices were developed: AIDS‐Contact, AIDS‐Phobia, Homophobia, and AIDS‐Stress. Misperceptions and fears about AIDS, as well as negative attitudes about individuals with the disease, were common. AIDS‐Phobia was positively correlated with Homophobia and AIDS‐Stress. AIDS‐Phobia and AIDS‐Stress were negatively correlated with AIDS‐Contact. More patient contact was associated with lower levels of perceived stress, except for those with frequent but impersonal patient contact. Strategies for educational programs based on results are proposed.