Interventions Plans for High-Risk Behaviors of Vulnerable Women: Rapid Assessment and Response Model

In recent years, given the accelerated social changes, the prevalence of high-risk behaviors among different social strata has become a major concern for the society. Accordingly, this study was conducted to present proposed interventions for reduction of high-risk behavior of vulnerable women in Iran, based on rapid assessment and response model. This was a qualitative study using rapid assessment and response to identify needs of vulnerable women with such behaviors conducted over 8 months in 2 selected cities in Iran. In the assessment stage, study population consisted of vulnerable women, working professionally and illegally in the sex trade, selling their bodies in the city for money or commodity, during the period of this study and at least three months earlier, and key informants with experience, skill, and sufficient knowledge and history of management in issues of high-risk behaviors among SEX-workers. Semi-structured interview techniques, and question guide and open observations were used to explain high-risk behaviors. According to the results obtained, 3 categories were identified, including high-risk behavior patterns and influencing factors, awareness and attitude, and diagnoses and medical services needs. Based on the 3 categories found, interventional strategies were designed separately for each one. Among benefits of rapid assessment and response methods, is design of interventions with participation of stakeholders and vulnerable groups, which increases the likelihood of interventions becoming operational.