Reducing discriminatory attitudes toward people living with HIV/AIDS (PLWHA) in Hong Kong: an intervention study using an integrated knowledge-based PLWHA participation and cognitive approach

AIDS Care. 2005 Jan;17(1):85-101. doi: 10.1080/09540120412331305151.

Abstract

The present paper describes the development and evaluation of an intervention programme aiming to reduce adolescents' discriminatory attitudes toward people living with HIV/AIDS (PLWHA). The intervention programme integrates components of 'virtual interaction' with PLWHA (watching a documentary), knowledge enhancement and a simple cognitive exercise. To evaluate its effectiveness, the programme was implemented to about 600 form 3-4 (grade 9-10) students of three secondary schools in Hong Kong. Using a structured questionnaire, the level of discriminatory attitudes toward PLWHA, knowledge about HIV/AIDS and perceptions about PLWHA, etc. were measured before and after the implementation of the programme. A notable improvement on the level of acceptance of PLWHA and knowledge about HIV/AIDS was found after the implementation of the programme. Negative perceptions about PLWHA also reduced substantially. For instance, before the programme, over one-third (35.7%) of all respondents believed that the majority of PLWHA were promiscuous; the figure dropped to 15.8% after exposure to the programme (adjusted odds ratio = 0.35, p < 0.001). Further, some gender differences were observed. Female respondents tended to be less discriminatory toward PLWHA and responded more favourably to the programme than their male counterparts.

Publication types

  • Research Support, Non-U.S. Gov't

MeSH terms

  • Acquired Immunodeficiency Syndrome / psychology*
  • Adolescent
  • Attitude to Health*
  • Female
  • HIV Infections / psychology*
  • Hong Kong
  • Humans
  • Male
  • Prejudice*
  • Sex Distribution
  • Students
  • Surveys and Questionnaires