Stigma and suffering : a theological reflection within the HIV/AIDS pandemic from the perspective of a theologia resurrectionis

[摘要] Stigma is a social-identity devaluation due to a characteristic mark or feature. It imposes adiscredited status, resulting in personal/social rejection and suffering. As a psychosocialconstruction, stigma reflects a systemic influence, as determined by the history andcharacteristics of the individual's psychological and social environment.This study explores the nature, variations, development, functions, processes, andjustification of stigma and stigmatisation. It reflects on the experiential context ofHIV/AIDS stigma/stigmatisation from the perspective of both the stigmatiser andstigmatised. Accounting for HIV/AIDS stigma are factors such as concealability, theunpredictability of infection, its terminal nature, and visible manifestations. The result isthe multi-faceted suffering of internalised and external stigma, manifested by theprejudice, rejection, ostracism, discrimination, and condemnation of people infected andaffected by HIV/AIDS.An assessment of HIV/AIDS destigmatisation found that it represents a recentdevelopment in the struggle against the pandemic. Destigmatisation interventions havebeen mostly ineffective because they lack a systems approach. Destigmatisationinterventions must be developed with cognisance of the societal context, culturalimpediments, major causes and problems of the pandemic.It was argued and concluded that theology can play a major role in combating HIV/AIDSstigma and stigmatisation. Scripture provides both knowledge and existential direction toinform HIV/AIDS destigmatisation. Stigmatisation is sin because it robs the human being- as created in the image of God, reconciled, and redeemed through the cross andresurrection - from his God-endowed dignity and worth. A theology of HIV/AIDS,including a theology of affirmation and an inhabitational theology, is required toadequately address HIV/AIDS stigmatisation and destigmatisation. A theology ofaffirmation is appropriate because it confirms the eschatological ontology of the humanbeing as a new creation, with a new, stigma-freed identity and status. An inhabitationaltheology reflects triumph over stigma through the empowerment of the indwelling Spirit.It was concluded that both a theology of the cross (reflecting the passion and compassion of God) and a theology of the resurrection is needed. A theology of the cross reveals ourhuman condition of sin, guilt and guilt feelings, but also God's grace, our salvation,forgiveness and reconciliation. A theologia resurrectionis emphasises the power of Godover sin, results in the transformation of the believer, which enables empowermentthrough the Spirit - who infuses the believer with courage, meaning, purpose, dignity andself-worth. Stigmatisation has made way for self-worth, victory, and charisma.The study concluded that the church has a major role to play in the destigmatisation ofHIV/AIDS stigma. The church should contribute to the deconstruction of power andcounter systemic injustices. Its should follow a holistic, systems approach, involving theproclamation of a theology of life, practicing pastoral care, participate in the missio Dei,and exhibiting a normative basis regarding destigmatisation interventions - especiallywith regard to marriage, gender and sex education. It should fulfil its calling of service,participate in the home-based care of the HIV/AIDS infected and affected (includingchildren), and demonstrate the resurrection identity of hope and empowerment, as enabledby the Holy Spirit.

[发布机构] Stellenbosch University