Social Representations of HIV And Aids Among People Living with HIV: a Comparative Study

Objective: The present study aimed to identify the semantic field of Social Representations (SR) about HIV and Aids among people living with HIV, both those who participate and those who do not participate in the Adherence Group. Theoretical Framework: Stigmatization still marks the lives of people living with HIV, causing psychosocial suffering and leading to isolation and secrecy, which weakens their support networks and increases social vulnerability. The Covid-19 pandemic exacerbated these problems, especially among immunocompromised individuals, due to the public health crisis and social isolation measures. Method: The study included 22 participants, divided into two groups based on their participation or not in the Adherence Group. Participants who attend the Adherence Group represented 41% of the total sample (9 people), with an average age of 46.2 years (SD = 10.5). Non-participants accounted for 59% (13 people), with an average age of 47 years (SD = 14.2). Three instruments were used for data collection: (1) a sociodemographic questionnaire, (2) a semi-structured interview, and (3) the Free Word Association Technique. Results and Discussion: SR about HIV among participants reveal both positive and negative aspects of living with the virus. These are associated with transformations and adjustments, often marked by individual and collective losses. Coping strategies range from favorable attitudes, such as self-acceptance, to unfavorable ones, such as isolation. Research Implications: It is hoped that the results will contribute to the strengthening or development of public policies aimed at addressing HIV and Aids, with special emphasis on the psychosocial factors that significantly impact the lives of people living with HIV. Originality/Value: This study sought to identify the semantic field of SR about HIV and Aids among people living with HIV, both participants and non-participants of the Adherence Group.