| This thesis is an investigation of the nature of HIV/AIDS-related stigma in the community of Mumias, Kenya. The study seeks to understand the levels at which stigma is perceived, experienced and internalized by residents, and how stigma is addressed through the programs of a local NGO. Research findings demonstrate the need for effective HIV-related stigma reducing strategies in order to minimize the impact of the stigma process. The study found that internalized stigma is the key component to reducing the overall impact of HIV/AIDS-related stigma. Through the use of the 'stigma diamond', a conceptual tool designed by the researcher, the benefits of reducing internalized stigma are clearly presented and the advantages of living positively as a valuable strategy for reducing stigma are illustrated. In addition to identifying the potential gains of targeting internalized stigma, the study recognizes that knowledge, not synonymous with behaviour change, is insufficient to effectively reduce the impacts of HIV/AIDS-related... |
