People with HIV/AIDS: Stigma, Self-Esteem and Psychological Health

The major objectives of the present study were (a) to explore the perception of stigma associated with HIV/AIDS among people living with HIV/AIDS (PLWHAs); (b) to investigate the relationship between stigma, self-esteem and psychological health, and; (c) to examine the mediating role of self-esteem in the relationship between (a) felt stigma and psychological health, and; (b) enacted stigma and psychological health. The sample consisted of 200 HIV positive individuals (100 females and 100 males) from Prayagraj (North India). Data were collected using a set of questionnaires (self-report measure). It contained questions related to demographic information (age, gender, marital status, education and income), the experience of stigma, self-esteem and psychological health. Results revealed that perceived and enacted stigma were negatively correlated with self-esteem and psychological health. Enacted stigma emerged as a significant predictor (negative) of self-esteem and psychological health. Self-esteem also emerged as a significant predictor of psychological health. It also revealed that the relationship between enacted stigma and psychological health was significantly mediated by self-esteem. Based on the findings, it is suggested that PLWHAs should be treated with respect and dignity, and efforts should be made to align them with the mainstream. Further, they should be encouraged to think above stigma in order to have a better quality of life.