Exploring the dimensions of HIV-related stigma: the impact on social connectedness and quality of life

<b>ABSTRACT</b>Although the biomedical advancements in HIV treatment have improved the original prognosis of the illness, people living with HIV (PLHIV) continue to encounter psychosocial challenges that impact their quality of life (QoL), including HIV-stigma and social connectedness. The present study investigates how different types of HIV-related stigma, as per the Conceptual Model of Perceived Stigma, respectively relate to QoL in the context of social connectedness in PLHIV. A total of 213 PLHIV attending a tertiary HIV clinic in Sydney Australia, completed questionnaires assessing HIV-related stigma, social connectedness, and QoL. After controlling for illness duration, the results revealed that overall HIV-related stigma and social connectedness were predictors of reduced QoL. Specifically, negative self-image, one of the four stigma types, was associated with decreased QoL, while personalized stigma, concerns about public attitudes, and disclosure concerns were not significant predictors. Furthermore, social connectedness partially mediated the relationship between negative self-image and QoL. This study enhances understanding of the impact of various forms of HIV-related stigma in an Australian cohort, including the role of social relationships, providing novel insights for clinical interventions.