Stigma and Discrimination Related HIV-AIDS

Abstract

Stigma refers to negative beliefs, feelings and attitudes towards people living with, or seen to be linked to HIV. Stigma also promote social exclusion. Stigma is a socially debilitating label that makes the stigmatized person or group feel secluded from mainstream society. Discrimination refers to the unfair and unjust treatment of someone based on their real or perceived HIV status. It is blaming and showing negative emotions onto a certain group/ population, attributing them or their morals to be the cause of their illness. This research paper is meant for Government departments, the Private sector, Non-Governmental Organizations (NGOs), Civil Society Organizations (CSOs), Advocacy groups, and the Community Based Organizations (CBOs) to provide an understanding of prevention and management of stigma and discrimination associated with HIV and AIDS. The research also attempts to provide stigma and discrimination mitigation strategies in different settings such as in the workplace, health care, educational and community settings and the role of media and FBOs in addressing HIV-related stigma and discrimination. causes for HIV-related stigma and discrimination.