Sexual Behavior and AIDS in Sociocultural Perspective

Abstract

AIDS, its cause, effect, and possible cure, has become a complex sociopsychological issue with ramifications extending far beyond the purely medical sphere. Spreading rapidly, with a higher incidence rate recorded among young people, the disease transcended the biomedical sphere, presenting sociocultural and psychological ramifications that go beyond its physical impact. With a higher incidence rate among male homosexuals, the epidemic raises morally sensitive questions which further confuse an already clouded picture. Current knowledge on the sexual transmission of AIDS and the role of male homosexuality demonstrates the need for more serious research into the various social and cultural aspects of homosexuality itself. To this end, medical anthropology may provide important information to those dealing with educational and preventive programs for the general population, as well as those in high risk groups for acquiring the disease.