Perception of stigma among HIV positive women with disabilities

The study explored the perception of stigma among HIV positive female students with disabilities in the Glenview/Mufakose district of Harare province in Zimbabwe. The study assessed the extend of perceived and enacted stigma experienced and how they were manifested, the perceived cause and impact of stigma, and to recommend culturally acceptable recommendations to alleviate it. Data was collected using structured questions. The sample had 10 HIV positive female students in the district between the ages of 12-18 years. Participants were purposively selected from organisations working with people living positively with the HIV virus within the district. Findings were that stigma was abundant, ranging from subtle actions to the most extreme degradation and rejection, Enacted stigma and felt stigma were the forms of stigma experienced by the HIV positive female students with disabilities. They were depressed, had suicidical tendencies and had a low self esteem. There was need for inclusive policies and a holistic multisectional approach within the community in sensitizing everyone on HIV and disability issues using traditional forums.