Defining HIV/AIDS-related Stigma through PhotoVoice: A Qualitative Approach

Objectives: Stigma is a powerful stressor for people living with HIV/AIDS.  The existing scholarship has largely focused on the impact of stigma. Few studies have defined stigma from the vantage point of highly affected groups.  In the current qualitative study, women of color living with HIV/AIDS were asked to describe their personal experiences with stigma through the process of PhotoVoice.    

Methods: Ten women were recruited from LAC+USC Medical Center and asked to describe their experiences with HIV-stigma through autobiographical photography. Photographs were then discussed during audio-recorded focus groups and semi-structured interviews. Analysis of participant narratives was embedded in phenomenological research and included inductive and deductive reasoning.

Results: Perceived and anticipated stigma led to unwillingness to disclose sero-status, fear of relationships, and depression.  As one participant explained, “I feel like this disease is holding me back from what I can actually do, from I can actually have sex or I can actually touch anybody because at a point in time I have to then turn and have to have this conversation with them about HIV that I don’t think I’m ready to have.” Another added, “…it’s like that love that I’m looking for I can no longer have so I’m kind of being cut off so I’m being like hurt, I’m now going through a depression stage…”

Conclusions: The women in this study identified HIV stigma as a potent impediment. Additional studies that describe stigma from the perspectives of highly impacted groups may be necessary to develop tailored reduction programs.