The Socio-Economic impacts of Stigmatization on young women (16-24) infected with HIV in Accra, Ghana (Ridge hospital)

Abstract: This study sought to explore the socio-economic impacts of stigmatization on young women (16-24) infected with HIV in Accra, Ghana (Ridge hospital). Qualitative study was performed with five young women 16-24 infected with HIV attending HIV clinic at Ridge hospital. Interviews were conducted to explore respondents’ perception of stigmatization and discrimination based on their HIV status and gender, economic burden posed on victims as a result of the HIV infection, and investigate any changes in the victim´s social participation following realization of their HIV infection. The respondents reported that stigma and discrimination have a negative impact on their socio-economic status. There is a fear of future refusal or dismissal from work due to their HIV status, a fear of economic and social suffering due to family and spousal neglect, as well as many other challenges associated HIV and pregnancy. Some respondents were able to cope with their current situation through self-confidence, adequate pre and post HIV counseling and testing, and social and economic support from family and hiding of HIV status. Stigma and discrimination was a huge problem that all the respondents reacted to as being an obstacle to their social and economic wellbeing. A model was developed from the findings that explain the stages that potential interventions can focus on to help alleviate this burden. This model was based on the findings that respondents perceived the effects of stigma and discrimination at two levels: current and future burdens. Beneath these lies a third level that helps them to cope.