Intervening in the HIV/AIDS Crisis: The Role of Black Psychologists

Abstract

Over the prior 2 decades, HIV and AIDS have ravaged the Black community. This article summarizes the epidemiologic, social, and psychological impact of HIV/AIDS on individuals and affected subpopulations in the Black community. An overview is then provided of prevailing research on psychological and mental health issues in HIV/AIDS-related prevention and care that highlights key issues of concern to Black psychologists and areas in which Black psychologists are well positioned to make important contributions to the field. In conclusion, specific suggestions for Black psychologists to become more involved in work on HIV/AIDS are provided.