Work

Awareness, Acceptance and Action: Developing Mindful Collaborations in International HIV/AIDS Research and Service

Year: 2009

Type: article

Abstract: Responses to the global pandemic of HIV/AIDS are enhanced when all parties have opportunities to express their needs and goals, assess their capacities for contributing to desired change and recruit support where resources, skills or expertise are required. The sense of urgency, strongly held beliefs and deeply seated anxieties that often accompany HIV-related illness challenge potential collaborators to be both mindful and strategic as they work together for success. Key concerns associated with international social work collaboration are examined with attention to mindfulness principles of awareness, acceptance and action. Emphasis is placed on developing awareness of complex motivations and on making accurate personal, social and environmental assessments. Collaborators are encouraged to accept the implications of culturally derived preconceptions, act intentionally, based on realistic expectations for partners' contributions, and sustain momentum over the long haul. Recommendations are offered for planning and implementing respectful international collaborations in HIV/AIDS service and research.

Source: The British Journal of Social Work

DOI: 10.1093/bjsw/bcp047

Authors: N. Abell, S. E. Rutledge

Institutions: Florida State University, Temple University

Language: English

Topic: Social Work Education and Practice

Subfield: Public Administration

Field: Social Sciences

Domain: Social Sciences

SDGs: Partnerships for the goals, Good health and well-being

Open Access status: green

Funder: Florida State University