HIV/AIDS Stigma and Persons Living with HIV/AIDS in Rural Ghana

Type Journal Article - International Quarterly of Community Health Education
Title HIV/AIDS Stigma and Persons Living with HIV/AIDS in Rural Ghana
Author(s)
Volume 34
Issue 3
Publication (Day/Month/Year) 2014
Page numbers 269-282
URL http://journals.sagepub.com/doi/abs/10.2190/IQ.34.3.e
Abstract
This qualitative study investigated community and family members' perceptions and attitudes toward persons living with HIV/AIDS (PLWHAs) in rural Ghana and how PLWHAs viewed themselves. The purpose was to provide insights into the nature and extent of HIV/AIDS-related stigma for program and policy interventions. Interviews and focus group discussions examined the stigma. Seventy-four participants 18 years and above (60 community members, 10 PLWHAs, 2 family members of PLWHAs, and 2 HIV/AIDS counselors) participated. Results showed that PLWHAs experienced various forms of negative perceptions, were stigmatized by community and family members, and held strong negative views of HIV/AIDS, which negatively affected the way they lived. To reduce HIV/AIDS related stigma in rural areas, HIV/AIDS education programs that call for strong community and family member support for PLWHAs are essential.

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