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
Lau, J.T.F.; Tsui, H.Y.; Chan, K.
Aids Care 17(1): 85-101
2005
ISSN/ISBN: 0954-0121 PMID: 15832836 DOI: 10.1080/09540120412331305151Document Number: 252354
An intervention programme aiming to reduce the discriminatory attitudes of adolescents toward people living with HIV/AIDS (PLWHA) was developed and evaluated. The intervention programme integrated 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 from 3 secondary schools in Hong Kong, China . Using a structured questionnaire, the level of discriminatory attitudes toward PLWHA, knowledge about HIV/AIDS, and perceptions about PLWHA were determined before (n=608 respondents) and after (n=545) 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 decreased to 15.8% after the programme (adjusted odds ratio, 0.35; P<0.001). In addition, 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.