In 1986, SMA and several groups with special interests in medical anthropology became formally associated, the groups assuming the status of affiliates. Involved were the Council on Nursing and Anthropology, Council on Reproductive Anthropology, Council on Nutritional Anthropology, Association for Anthropology and Gerontology, Critical Anthropology of Health Interest Group, Infectious Disease Study Group, Alcohol and Drug Study Group, Disability Research Interest Group, and Anthropology and AIDS Research Group. The records include correspondence, minutes, agenda, reports, bylaws, a procedures manual, programs, financial papers, and editorial materials. The papers also include unpublished papers and other materials of Ellen Basker and correspondence of Hazel W. Weidman. Correspondents include Rita L. Arlinger, Clifford Barnett, Pamela J. Brink, Paul Brown, Lucy Cohen, Jeannine Coreil, Charles C. Hughes, Charles Leslie, Frances Cooke MacGregor, Marc S. Micozzi, Benjamin D. Paul, Gretel H. Pelto, Janet M. Schrieber, Hazel W. Weidman, and Helen Jean Wiese.
Editorial material is subject to a long-term restriction.
In 1966, the Wenner Gren Foundation for Anthropological Research sponsored a conference of anthropologists interested in motion picture film and filmmakers. Its purpose was to coordinate and promote the work of those involved in visual anthropology through teaching, production, and training. As time passed, it became apparent that followers of visual anthropology had much broader interests. While film remained a highly important concern, PIEF tried to bring together researchers who were studying human behavior through all visual means, including film, still photography, drawing and paintings, sculpture, and body decoration. SVA has conducted annual meetings coincidental with the AAA, and it has regularly produced a review of anthropological film for AAA members.