Employment Reinforcement Strategies for HIV/AIDS
Trial Summary
Do I have to stop taking my current medications for this trial?
The trial protocol does not specify whether you need to stop taking your current medications.
Do I need to stop my current medications for this trial?
The trial information does not specify whether you need to stop taking your current medications.
What data supports the idea that Employment Reinforcement Strategies for HIV/AIDS is an effective treatment?
The available research shows that Employment Reinforcement Strategies, also known as Contingency Management, can be effective for people with HIV/AIDS. In one study, participants who received this treatment were more likely to achieve viral load suppression, which means the amount of HIV in their blood was reduced. Another study at an HIV drop-in center found that using this treatment increased attendance and activity completion rates. Although there are fewer studies specifically on HIV, similar strategies have been successful in helping people with substance use disorders by encouraging drug abstinence and improving treatment attendance. This suggests that the treatment can be beneficial for managing HIV-related behaviors as well.12345
What data supports the effectiveness of the treatment Activity Contracting, Contingency Management for Activity Completion, Contingency Management, Reinforcement Therapy for HIV/AIDS?
Research shows that contingency management (CM) can effectively improve behaviors related to HIV management, such as medication adherence and attendance at health appointments. Studies have also demonstrated that CM can enhance outcomes in substance use treatment and vocational rehabilitation by providing incentives for meeting specific goals, suggesting its potential effectiveness in supporting employment and health behaviors in individuals with HIV/AIDS.12345
What safety data exists for Employment Reinforcement Strategies for HIV/AIDS?
The research indicates that Contingency Management (CM), which is related to Employment Reinforcement Strategies, is an evidence-based intervention primarily used for substance use disorders. It has been shown to be effective in reducing drug use and HIV risk behaviors. CM has been applied to reinforce non-drug-related activities, including employment-related tasks, and has been integrated into multi-target interventions for HIV-positive individuals. While the studies focus on efficacy, they do not explicitly address safety concerns, suggesting that CM is generally considered safe as it involves positive reinforcement strategies.16789
Is contingency management safe for humans?
Contingency management (CM) has been used safely in various studies to encourage positive behaviors, such as abstaining from drug use and attending health appointments. It involves providing rewards for meeting specific goals and has been integrated into different treatment programs without reported safety concerns.16789
Is the treatment Activity Contracting, Contingency Management for Activity Completion a promising treatment for helping people with HIV/AIDS return to work?
Yes, the treatment is promising because it focuses on helping people with HIV/AIDS reenter the workforce, which can improve their health and social outcomes. Employment is a key factor in better health and preventing HIV transmission, and this treatment aims to support people in achieving these benefits.1011121314
How does the treatment 'Activity Contracting, Contingency Management for Activity Completion' differ from other treatments for HIV/AIDS?
This treatment is unique because it focuses on using employment reinforcement strategies, such as setting goals and providing rewards for completing activities, to help people with HIV/AIDS reenter the workforce, which is different from traditional medical treatments that primarily focus on managing the virus itself.1011121314
What is the purpose of this trial?
Many persons living with HIV/AIDS (PLWHA) are unemployed, with estimates indicating rates as high as 60%. This study will examine the efficacy of reinforcing job-acquisition activities for improving employment outcomes in PLWHA who desire to return to the workforce in part- or full-time capacity. In total, this study will randomly assign 144 unemployed PLWHA to one of two interventions. All participants will receive usual unemployment services with an emphasis on specific issues related to HIV/AIDS, plus encouragement for completing activities geared toward employment readiness and acquisition. The enhanced intervention will involve that same treatment plus chances to win prizes for engaging in job-related activities each week. Participants will receive study treatments for 16 weeks and complete follow-up evaluations throughout 18 months. The hypothesis is that participants reinforced for completing job-related activities will transition to employment at higher and faster rates and work more often than those who are not reinforced for job-related activities.
Research Team
Carla Rash, Ph.D.
Principal Investigator
UConn Health
Eligibility Criteria
This trial is for adults over 18 who are HIV positive and currently unemployed, not participating in the formal economy. It's designed to help them get back into work. People with conditions that could interfere with their participation in the study cannot join.Inclusion Criteria
Exclusion Criteria
Timeline
Screening
Participants are screened for eligibility to participate in the trial
Treatment
Participants receive usual unemployment services with an emphasis on specific issues related to HIV/AIDS, plus encouragement for completing activities geared toward employment readiness and acquisition. The enhanced intervention includes chances to win prizes for engaging in job-related activities each week.
Follow-up
Participants complete follow-up evaluations to assess employment outcomes, quality of life indices, physical and cognitive functioning, psychological symptoms, viral loads, and drug use and risk behaviors.
Treatment Details
Interventions
- Activity Contracting
- Contingency Management for Activity Completion
Find a Clinic Near You
Who Is Running the Clinical Trial?
UConn Health
Lead Sponsor
National Institute on Drug Abuse (NIDA)
Collaborator