Resisting and disrupting HIV-related stigma: a photovoice study

BMC Public Health

Research

Elizabeth Hydesmith¹  Punam Mehta²  Gayle Restall³  Patricia Ukoli⁴  Mike Payne⁵ 

[1] Department of Anthropology, Faculty of Arts, University of Manitoba, Winnipeg, MB, Canada;Department of Community Health Sciences, Faculty of Health Sciences, University of Manitoba, Winnipeg, MB, Canada;Department of Occupational Therapy, Faculty of Health Sciences, University of Manitoba, R3E 0T6, Winnipeg, MB, Canada;Faculty of Social Work, University of Manitoba, Winnipeg, MB, Canada;Nine Circles Community Health Centre, Winnipeg, MB, Canada;

关键词: HIV stigma;    Oppression;    Resistance;    Qualitative research;   

DOI  :  10.1186/s12889-023-16741-1

 received in 2022-09-29, accepted in 2023-09-12,  发布年份 2023

来源: Springer

【 摘 要 】

BackgroundThe stigma associated with human immunodeficiency virus (HIV) is a significant global public health concern. Health care providers and policy makers continue to struggle with understanding and implementing strategies to reduce HIV-related stigma in particular contexts and at the intersections of additional oppressions. Perspectives and direction from people living with HIV are imperative.MethodsIn this project we amplified the voices of people living with HIV about their experiences of HIV-related stigma in Manitoba, Canada. We used an arts-based qualitative case study research design using photovoice and narrative interviews. Adults living with HIV participated by taking pictures that represented their stigma experiences. The photos were a catalyst for conversations about HIV and stigma during follow-up individual narrative interviews. Journaling provided opportunities for participants to reflect on their experiences of, and resistance to, stigma. Interviews were audio recorded and transcribed. Photos, journals, and transcribed interviews were analyzed using inductive qualitative methodsResultsThrough pictures and dialogue, participants (N = 11; 64% women) expressed the emotional and social impacts of stigmas that were created and supported by oppressive structures and interpersonal attitudes and behaviours. These experiences were compounded by intersecting forms of oppression including racism, sexism, and homophobia. Participants also relayed stories of their personal strategies and transitions toward confronting stigma. Strategies were themed as caring for oneself, caring for children and pets, reconstituting social support networks, and resisting and disrupting stigma. Participants made important recommendations for system and policy change.ConclusionsThese stories of oppression and resistance can inspire action to reduce HIV-related stigma. People living with HIV can consider the strategies to confront stigma that were shared in these stories. Health care providers and policy makers can take concerted actions to support peoples’ transitions to resisting stigmas. They can facilitate supportive and anti-oppressive health and social service systems that address medical care as well as basic needs for food, shelter, income, and positive social and community connections.

【 授权许可】

CC BY   
© BioMed Central Ltd., part of Springer Nature 2023

【 图 表 】

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Fig. 5