Enhancing Theory of Structural-Level Interventions for HIV Prevention and Care

This chapter provides multiple insights into the theoretical basis of structural-level intervention approaches to the prevention and control of HIV/AIDS. Set within the context of social science theories applied to HIV/AIDS and the growing realization that behavioral theories are lacking in effect, the chapter suggests an expanded role of social science theory in the development of structural-level interventions. A case is presented that moving forward to prevent and control the pandemic will require improved theoretical frameworks for addressing persistent inequities. Topics covered include the emergence of “structural interventions” in HIV/AIDS and ways to move theoretically informed structural interventions. A theoretically informed agenda for a new generation of structural interventions is proposed.