Judith Cornelius Publications

Cornelius, J, Moneyham, L. & LeGrand, S.
Adaptation of an HIV prevention curriculum for use with older African American women.
J Assoc Nurses AIDS Care. 2008 Jan-Feb;19(1):16-27.
PMID: 18191765 [PubMed - indexed for MEDLINE]

Although African American women over 50 years of age represent the fastest growing group with HIV infection, little attention has been given to their HIV risk reduction needs. This study adapted an HIV risk reduction curriculum for use with older African American women based on input from a sample of women from the target population. Four focus group interviews were conducted with 30 African American women from three churches regarding adaptation of the Sisters Informing Sisters on Topics about AIDS (SISTA) curriculum for older women and the feasibility of implementing the curriculum in a church setting. From these focus group interviews, the authors identified modifications that could be used to adapt the curriculum for older women. After examination of the curriculum, the women expressed increased knowledge of HIV, a sense of bonding with other participants, and willingness to use churches as venues for HIV prevention. Nurses can build upon the study's recommendations to ensure successful implementation of church-based sexuality programs for individuals of all ages.

Cornelius, J. LeGrand, S. & Jemmott, L.
African American Grandparents' and Adolescent Grandchildren's Sexuality Communication.
J Fam Nurs. 2008 Jul 1. [Epub ahead of print]
PMID: 18594114 [PubMed - as supplied

This exploratory study uses survey methodology to generate data on grandparent–grandchild sexuality communications and attitudes and feelings about these processes. The sample includes 40 African American grandparent–grandchild dyads for a total of 80 participants recruited from five churches. One open-ended question asks the participants about their willingness to use churches as venues in HIV prevention. Grandparents have more positive attitudes and feelings about sexuality communications than their adolescent grandchildren. Both grandparents and their adolescent grandchildren are receptive to the idea of using churches as venues in HIV prevention and provide recommendations about how a church-based sexuality program could be developed. The role of grandparents is constantly being redefined; therefore, we must continue to examine the needs of this population and the grandchildren they are raising. Nurses can build on the study’s findings to develop church-based sexuality programs.