The social-psychological consequences of hiv/aids stigmatization on social Relations in nigeria

Abstract

As HIV/AIDS continues to ravage sub-Sahara Africa, questions about the Social-Psychological effects of the pandemic affecting social relationship and networks have become pronounced. People's behavioural response to the disease and relationship with victims is often shaped by their beliefs, values and social expectations about appropriate behavioural dispositions. Despite the increasing knowledge and awareness that people have concerning HIV/AIDS and its mode of transmission, discrepancies still exist regarding the attitudinal and behavioural responses of members of the society to HIV/AIDS victims. This paper seek to examine the socio-cultural and psychological dynamics underlying this attitudinal disposition and the consequences it has on the quality of life of victims and their responses to the infection. The paper concludes that the increased stigmatization and discrimination surrounding HIV/AIDS infection is exacerbated by its being the object of intense moral scrutiny which must be redressed by pragmatic legislations.
The problem with the truth is that it is mainly uncomfortable and often dull.
-H. L. Mencken


IFE PsychologIA Vol. 15 (2) 2007: pp. 10-24