Reasons for low male participation in HIV and AIDS support groups : a focus on Mahalapye sub district, Botswana

[摘要] ENGLISH ABSTRACT:Aim: Male involvement in HIV Support groups has been noted to be low (Heyer et al, 2008;Maboshe, 2008; Russel & Schneider, 2000). The aim of the study was to explore factorsaffecting the participation of males in HIV support groups and examine their perceptions andunderstanding of the benefits of participating in HIV support groups. The study also set out toexplore the reasons of low male participation in HIV and AIDS support groups. The study wasconducted in Mahalapye, Botswana.Methodology: An exploratory qualitative approach was adopted to generate data. This methodwas chosen for it suitability in formulating more precise questions for further research. A totalof three focus groups with six to ten participants were conducted with HIV positive men abovethe age of 21. Participants were selected from Mahalapye West Airstrip Clinic using thepurposive sampling procedure. Data was analyzed using the general inductive approach which isused for analyzing qualitative data where the analysis is guided by specific objectives. Themeswere created from actual phrases used in specific text segments.Results: The findings revealed that there is a some lack of knowledge about the existence ofsupport groups for PLWHA. Those that are aware have both positive and negative feelingsabout them. Support groups were perceived to be helpful, a platform for PLWHA to vent andshare their experiences and a source of knowledge about treatment and healthy lifestyles.Reasons cited for low participation are: mixed gender groups which compromise the men'scomfort levels and ability to fully express themselves; lack of confidentiality; accessibility ofvenue; work schedule; fear of stigma and discrimination: fear of disclosure; inconvenient timesof support groups.Recommendations: Gender considerations to be incorporated in strategic frameworks fortackling HIV and AIDS, increase awareness of HIV and AIDS support groups for PLWHA,educate communities about the negatives effects of stigmatizing and discriminating againstPLWHA and conduct more research about the effects that support groups have on PLWHA inan effort to support and emphasize their importance. This could potentially increase the numberof males that attend them.

[发布机构] Stellenbosch University