
Organizations planning to implement SIHLE can use this CDC 10-page tool to develop an implementation plan and program objectives.
SIHLE is a peer-led, social-skills training aimed at reducing HIV sexual risk behavior among sexually active, African-American females, ages 14-18. An adaptation of the SISTA intervention, SIHLE emphasizes ethnic and gender pride. It also enhances awareness of HIV risk reduction strategies such as abstaining from sex, using condoms consistently, and having fewer sex partners. SIHLE is designed to foster positive attitudes and norms toward consistent condom use. Homework activities are designed to involve male partners and emphasize the importance of their involvement in safer sex. The intervention consists of four 3-hour sessions, delivered by two peer facilitators (ages 18-21) and one adult facilitator.
SIHLE was evaluated using an experimental evaluation design with treatment and control conditions in Birmingham, Alabama. The treatment group included 522 adolescent females seeking services at 4 community-based organizations. Outcomes were measured at 6 and 12 months. The following outcomes were reported:
Site Activities
Participant Activities
CDC only offers SIHLE training to CDC Division of Reproductive Health grantees. If interested in training, contact a master trainer. Every SIHLE training should include two adult trainers and two peer trainers. SIHLE kit materials are for individuals who have completed the training, are available through a password-protected site, and include implementation materials. For ordering information and questions, contact Danya International. Additional implementation resources are available for purchase through ETR and partner Sociometrics. Resources include, digitized program package, evaluation instrument, program package, and users guide.