From the physical self to the social body: expressions and effects of HIV-related stigma in South Africa
Journal Article
2006
Permanent link to this Item
Authors
Journal Title
Journal of Community and Applied Social Psychology
Link to Journal
Journal ISSN
Volume Title
Publisher
Wiley
Publisher
University of Cape Town
Department
Faculty
License
Series
Abstract
This paper discusses some of the forms and consequences of HIV-related stigma in a community living in KTC, an informal settlement in South Africa, drawing on ethnographic research findings. The first section presents a dynamic form of stigma sign language that is used to label the HIVpositive 'other' in this community. The second section highlights some of the pernicious consequences of HIV-related stigma, including fear of disclosure and downward social mobility, and the way in which these prompt some HIV-positive people to avoid local clinics and treatment altogether, and drive others to mask or hide the fact that they are receiving medical treatment, such as antiretroviral drugs.
Description
Reference:
Mills, E. A. (2006). From the physical self to the social body: expressions and effects of HIV‐related stigma in South Africa. Journal of Community & Applied Social Psychology, 16(6), 498-503.