Psychocultural Factors Associated with HIV Infection Among Trinidad and Tobago Adolescents

Abstract

SUMMARY The Caribbean region ranks highest in terms of reported HIV incidence in the Americas and is second in the world. The islands of Trinidad and Tobago are disproportionately affected by HIV compared with the rest of the English-speaking Caribbean. In the twin-island state of Trinidad and Tobago, the fastest growing HIV risk group is adolescents ages 15 to 24. Among this group, females are especially vulnerable. This article explores the complex cultural, economic, and social factors obscuring the reduction of HIV infection among adolescents. Special emphasis is placed on psychocultural factors that leave female adolescents especially vulnerable. Implications and recommendations are made for developing effective HIV prevention programs by highlighting the role of culture-specific community-based resources for these at-risk groups.