Applying the Theory of Reasoned Action to condom use among sex workers

This study assessed the relationship between constructs from the Theory of Reasoned Action (TRA) on condom use in a sample of 1394 Filipino female sex workers. Path analysis for observed variables was used to examine the relationship between attitudes, norms and behavioral intentions on behaviors within the context of condom use during vaginal sex. Results indicate that the direct paths between attitudes toward the behavior and subjective norms were small in comparison to the direct paths between these two constructs and behavioral intentions. This supports the findings of the TRA, which states that behaviors are influenced by attitudes toward the behavior and subjective norms as mediated through intentions to perform the behavior. In addition, it was illustrated that the participation of the managers in the intervention will more than likely influence the success of the intervention. These findings exemplify the need to develop HIV preventative interventions that are sample specific. In conclusion, condom attitudes and policies of managers who employ commercial sex workers are very important for reducing risky sexual practice among their workers.     

Models of the Aging Self

Older adults are faced with numerous physical, psychological, and social role changes that challenge their sense of self and capacity to live happily. In addition, they are inundated by our youth-oriented culture with negative ageist stereotypes. Nevertheless, most older adults live happy, fulfilling lives. In this article, we review theories of the aging individual that address this apparent paradox. These theories can be largely divided into those that emphasize control and goal attainment, and those that emphasize the self's organizational capacity. Of the self-oriented theories, we will highlight Whitbourne's (1996) identity process perspective, which is specific to the aging process and attempts to explain the self's unique capacity to remain stable yet change over time.     

The Emotional and Psychological Experiences of Drag Performers: A Qualitative Study

To better understand psychological experiences of drag queens, the authors conducted interviews with 12 cisgender, gay male drag queens from a midsouth state. Participants were age 22 to 54 years (M = 34) and reported participating in drag for 2 to 33 years (M = 13). The authors used consensual qualitative analysis to identify five main themes: motivation, effects, protective factors, stressors, and involvement. Results indicate that participants in drag may benefit from social support, a creative outlet, and empowerment. Participants also reported experiences of discrimination, performance anxiety, and loss of friendships. We discuss implications for counseling lesbian, gay, bisexual, and transgender people who may perform in drag.     

Deafness and hearing loss - a global health problem

Throughout history deafness and hearing loss have been widely misunderstood. Issues concerning the education of deaf children, appropriate means of communication and remediation of deafness have consistently been a source of heated debate between the professionals working with the deaf and the deaf people themselves. The purpose of this paper is an attempt to illustrate these issues and to impart to the reader the realization that a diagnosis of "deaf" means so much more than the inability to hear and understand speech and other sounds. It is a way of life that cannot be ignored (Jacobs, A Deaf Adult Speaks Out, Harvard University Press, Washington, DC, 1994).