Gender Differences in the Experiences of HIV/AIDS-Related Stigma: A Qualitative Study in Ghana

Abstract

Globally more women have been diagnosed with HIV/AIDS and are more likely to be stigmatized than men, especially in male-dominant societies. Gender differences in the experience of HIV-related stigma, however, have not been extensively explored. Researchers investigate the gender differences in HIV/AIDS-related stigma experiences here. Interviews were conducted with eight HIV patients and their nine discordant family members in Ghana. Our findings include gender differences in disclosure and response to HIV/AIDS diagnosis. The negative impact of HIV-related stigma was found to be more extensive for women than for men. Our findings may be used to facilitate an awareness and understanding through which supportive interventions can be implemented.

Gendered aspects of perceived and internalized HIV-related stigma in China

“…Previous studies have demonstrated that stigma experiences differ by gender and that more women living with HIV report stigmatizing experiences than do males living with HIV (Asiedu & Myers-Bowman 2014; Gupta & Selvaggio 2007; Loutfy et al 2012). The reasons underpinning these gender differences in HIV stigma include the fact that women living with HIV may be blamed for acquiring HIV and may also be accused of moral misconduct (International Center for Research on Women 2003; Wingood & DiClemente 2010).…”

Qualitative exploration of psychological reactions and coping strategies of breastfeeding mothers living with HIV in the Greater Accra Region of Ghana

“…This would also predispose their children to stigmatization [17]. In a conservative culture such as Ghana, people living with HIV are stigmatized in the community and sometimes in the hospitals [9–11]. Perhaps, the possibility of side effects after prolonged exposure of their children to the anti-retroviral medication if they contract HIV, may also be causing the fear in the mothers.…”

“…People living with HIV in Ghana are stigmatized [9–11]. In a Ghanaian study, it was found that, stigmatization of people living with HIV occurred not only in the community but also at the hospital [12].…”

“…In a Ghanaian study, it was found that, stigmatization of people living with HIV occurred not only in the community but also at the hospital [12]. Although stigmatization in Ghana is experienced by the majority of the people living with HIV, it is much more intense towards women and men who have sex with men [9, 11]. The stigma is extended to some pediatric caregivers in Ghana [13].…”

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“…A research study conducted by Asiedu et al, to explore the impact of HIV-related stigma in Ghana found that women appeared to experience a greater negative impact of the stigma as compared to men [51]. In addition, they found that men reacted negatively towards their wife when they were diagnosed with HIV, as compared to women who were forgiving and compassionate towards their husband when they were diagnosed.…”