Exploring the Concept of HIV-Related Stigma

Abstract

BACKGROUND HIV infection is a chronic, manageable illness. Despite advances in the care and treatment of people living with HIV infection, HIV-related stigma remains a challenge to HIV testing, care, and prevention. Numerous studies have documented the impact of HIV-related stigma among various groups of people living with HIV infection, but the concept of HIV-related stigma remains unclear. PURPOSE Concept exploration of HIV-related stigma via an integrative literature review was conducted in order to examine the existing knowledge base of this concept. METHODS Search engines were employed to review the existing knowledge base of this concept. CONCLUSION After the integrative literature review, an analysis of HIV-related stigma emerged. Implications for future concept analysis, research, and practice are included.

Sexuality and childbearing as it is experienced by women living with HIV in Sweden: a lifeworld phenomenological study

“…Many studies among HIV-positive people show that stigmatization has a negative impact on quality of life (Cuca & Rose, 2016; Florom‐Smith & De Santis, 2012; Goffman, 1990; Okuno et al, 2015). Stigmatization can also increase medication adherence issues (Li, Murray, K., Suwanteerangkul, & Wiwatanadate, 2014), and can increase sexual risk behaviour among people living with HIV (Teti, Bowleg, & Lloyd, 2010; Wingood et al, 2007).…”

Feasibility of a Home-Based Speed of Processing Training Program in Middle-Aged and Older Adults With HIV

“…Finally, positive feedback from the participants is encouraging in that such a cognitive training protocol may be used effectively for this population in their homes. Home-based speed of processing interventions may be beneficial for adults who fear unsolicited disclosure of HIV status, and those who fail to seek healthcare services because of HIV-related stigma that exists in some communities and healthcare settings (Florom-Smith & De Santis, 2012). …”

Stigma and resilience: Lived experiences of people with HIV in a northern community.

“…After learning about their diagnosis, the participants had to integrate new information into their existing identity that translated into them questioning assumptions about many aspects of their life, rethinking their priorities and goals, knowing that their life would change. Similar findings of PLWHA experience of stigma were presented in other researches as well (Block, 2009;Florom-Smith & De Santis, 2012).…”

“…Individuals shared stories of being rejected by family or treated differently by persons that meant the most to them (Block, 2009;Florom-Smith & De Santis, 2012). Similar findings were presented by Laryea and Gien (1993) where PLWHA shared traumatic experiences such as physical and emotional abuse, social isolation, fear and depression.…”