PERCEPTIONS AND ATTITUDES INFLUENCE ON THE LEVEL OF DISCRIMINATION AND STIGMATIZATION OF PEOPLE LIVING WITH HIV/ AIDS IN GARISSA COUNTY

Abstract

Purpose: The purpose of the study was to establish the perceptions and attitudes influence on the level of discrimination and stigmatization of people living with HIV/ AIDS in Garissa County.Methodology: The target population of the study was all the patients with HIV and AIDS attending The Comprehensive care Centre at Garissa Provincial General Hospital in Garissa County. There are approximately 2000 people actively on ARVs attending the facility. A sample of 200 respondents was selected using random sampling from the listed list of all patients in the hospitals. The study used primary data. Data collection methods included: questionnaires and interview guide. Data was analyzed quantitatively and qualitatively. Information was sorted, coded and input into the statistical package for social sciences (SPSS) for production of graphs, tables, descriptive statistics and inferential statistics. Results were presented by use of tables and charts.Results: Based on the findings, the study concluded that perceived factors influenced stigmatization and discrimination levels. Specifically, the likelihood of females spreading HIV influenced levels of stigmatization and discrimination. Similarly, the likelihood of old people spreading HIV influenced levels of stigmatization and discrimination.Unique contribution to theory, practice and policy: Based on the findings, the study recommends that group therapy should be conducted regularly with an aim of encouraging members of the public to be tested and be aware of their HIV status.