The Impact of Stigmatization and Discrimination towards HIV/AIDS Patients in Rawalpindi-Islamabad

Abstract

The panacea of a smooth and comfortable society lies upon awareness and understanding of certain phenomenon; which force others to discriminate people on the basis of stereotypes. In order to shape this strategy the primary area of focus is to provide the awareness regarding the death-defying disease; HIV/AIDS. The importance of providing information about this precarious disease is to eradicate the stigmatization done with HIV/AIDS patients. It is very necessary to minimize this stigmatization as it hinders the process of treatment and proper care. The following qualitative research is focused on determining the level of stigmatization, its various dimensions in the locale and its impact on the lives of HIV/AIDS patients. This study is conducted keeping in consideration the aspect that this disease prevails strongly in the locale. The topic and area was selected to see the prevalence of HIV/AIDS and the impacts of discrimination done due to this perilous disease. Majorly, the disease is attacking the IDUs and they were highest in the number among the target population. Interview schedules were opted as tool for data collection throughout the entire research. Whereas, the purposive sampling was utilized to select respondents. While conducting the research came across many different aspects relating the lives of HIV positive patients. The study is highly Significant in order to see the link between HIV/AIDS and stigmatization.