Social Death: The case of HIV/AIDS Stigmatisation in the Central Regional Hospital of Ghana

Abstract

The purpose of this study was to identify the causes and effects of stigmatisation on HIV and AIDS patients in the Central Region of Ghana. Some theoretical perspectives have been used to explain stigmatisation. They were the attribution theory and the exchange theory. These theories were found to be suitable for the explanation of stigmatisation in HIV and AIDS. In conducting the study, a sample size of 120 was used in addition to 5 case studies. Two non-probability sampling techniques were used. Purposive and convenient/accidental sampling techniques were used. Both primary data and secondary information were used. Interview guides and case studies were used for the study. The findings of the study included the fact that most people stigmatized people living with HIV and AIDS because of the correct and incorrect knowledge they have about HIV and its mode of transmission. Again, people stigmatized HIV and AIDS patients because of the myths surrounding AIDS and also, based on their socio-cultural background and orientation about its mode of transmission. These stigmatising and discriminatory behaviours from people towards People Living with HIV and AIDS have serious health, social and psychological effects on patients in particular and the society at large. Based on the results of the study it was recommended that to reduce stigmatisation there should be an intensification of education of people about AIDS through the media to reduce the rate of misconception and fear among people.