Faith Leaders’ Perspectives on Involvement in HIV Prevention for Urban Black Youth in New Jersey, USA

Round 1

Reviewer 1 Report

Comments and Suggestions for Authors

The authors have written a commendable but short essay on an important topic. It is mostly well researched (although it was surprising to see the absence of Gina Wingood's research with Black churches addressing HIV) and has a reasonable goal of exploring faith leaders' attitudes about HIV risk and prevention. Because it is an exploratory study with a small sample size the author's choice to focus on three themes is useful. However, it is surprising that these three themes are not fully explored or analyzed.

In describing the data analysis there seemed to be a volume of data (although it is not stated how long the faith leaders' interviews were) based on the number of coders/amount of coding. The analysis describes how the authors narrowed down to addressing three major themes from the interviews. Useful material from the interviews is given in the results but the discussion falls shy of deep analysis. On one hand providing the qualitative findings is a benefit but it is not the only benefit promised in the article. The discussion section amounts to 2 paragraphs and there is really no analysis in the section devoted to sharing the results. For example, what difference does it make that the majority of the leaders did not know where to send members who might admit being HIV+? What is the impact of not feeling able to discuss sex and HIV with youth in their religious spaces? If leaders shared  they believed that it was the responsibilities of schools to educate what is the significance of the religious spaces' responsibilities to address HIV?

This should not be a lot of revision but more attention does need to be paid to the significance of the study, e.g. analyzing what is gleaned from the interviews conducted.

One final correction needed is on pg 2 the authors reference snowball sampling in rural parts of Alabama and since this study was supposed to be in New Jersey it was unclear how that was relevant.

Author Response

Please see the attachment

Author Response File: Author Response.pdf

Reviewer 2 Report

Comments and Suggestions for Authors

Overall, this article provides a comprehensive overview of the role of faith-based organizations and leaders in addressing HIV/AIDS, particularly within Black communities in the United States. Here are some comments and suggestions:

1. Introduction: Consider adding a brief explanation of why Black and Hispanic/Latinx populations are disproportionately affected by HIV/AIDS. This could provide context for readers who may not be familiar with the underlying factors contributing to this disparity.

 

1. Statistics and Data Ensure that all statistics and data are up to date and accurately cited. Check if there are more recent sources available to support your claims.
2. Clarity and structure: The article is well-structured with clear subsections, which makes it easy to follow. Ensure consistency in formatting and numbering throughout the text.
3. Language and tone The language used is formal and appropriate for an academic article. However, be mindful of any potentially stigmatizing language when discussing sensitive topics such as sex work and HIV/AIDS. Use person-first language whenever possible.
4. Integration of citations: Make sure that citations are integrated smoothly into the text. Consider using signal phrases to introduce sources and provide context for the information presented.
5. Discussion of Findings: Provide more analysis and interpretation of the findings from the interviews with faith-based leaders. What themes emerged from these interviews, and what do they reveal about the attitudes and perceptions of these leaders regarding HIV/AIDS prevention?
6. Recommendations and Implications Offer recommendations for future research or interventions based on the findings of the study. How can faith-based organizations and leaders be more effectively engaged in HIV/AIDS prevention efforts? What strategies or approaches have shown promise in addressing stigma and promoting education within these communities?
7. Conclusion: Summarize the key points of the article and emphasize the importance of collaboration between faith-based organizations, public health agencies, and community stakeholders in combating HIV/AIDS.
8. References: Double-check the formatting and completeness of the reference list to ensure consistency with the chosen citation style (APA, MLA, etc.).
9. Ethical Consideration: Discuss any ethical considerations related to the study, such as informed consent procedures, confidentiality, and potential biases in recruitment or data analysis

Overall, the article addresses an important topic and provides valuable insights into the role of faith-based organizations in HIV/AIDS prevention. With some revisions and additions, it can make a significant contribution to the existing literature in this field.

Comments on the Quality of English Language

Overall, the quality of English language in the article is quite good. However, there are a few areas where improvements could be made for clarity and coherence:

• Consistency in Terminology: Throughout the article, there are variations in terminology, particularly regarding HIV/AIDS (e.g., "HIV/AIDS," "HIV," "AIDS"). It would be beneficial to consistently use one term or clearly define when each term is used.
• Sentence Structure: Some sentences are lengthy and complex, which can make them difficult to follow. Breaking these sentences into shorter, more concise sentences would enhance readability and comprehension.
• Punctuation: There are instances where punctuation, such as commas and semicolons, could be used more effectively to improve clarity and structure within sentences.
• Transition Phrases: Some paragraphs lack smooth transitions between ideas, leading to a disjointed flow of information. Incorporating transition phrases or sentences would help connect ideas more seamlessly.
• Formatting: The formatting of the text, particularly with the inclusion of citations and section headings, could be improved for better organization and readability.
• Acronyms and Abbreviations: While some acronyms are defined (e.g., CDC), others are not, which may be confusing for readers not familiar with the terminology. Providing definitions or explanations for all acronyms and abbreviations would enhance clarity.
• Proofreading: There are occasional typographical errors ("Hinderances" instead of "Hindrances," "characteristics" instead of "characteristics," "habituation" instead of "habitation," etc.) that could be corrected with thorough proofreading.

Overall, addressing these areas would enhance the clarity and coherence of the article, making it more accessible to a wider audience.

Author Response

Please see attachment

Author Response File: Author Response.pdf