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AIDS (Acquired Immune Deficiency Syndrome): The Social Dimension (From AIDS and IV Drug Abusers: Current Perspectives, P 231-241, 1988, Robert P Galea, et al, eds. -- See NCJ-112198)

NCJ Number
112218
Author(s)
K Siegel
Date Published
1988
Length
11 pages
Annotation
This article describes several aspects of the public's reaction to AIDS and how these responses have become sources of psychological distress for people with AIDS (PWA) and others at a risk for infection of HIV.
Abstract
The public's perception of the scientific community's perplexity about AIDS has led to the conclusion that it is wisest, regarding contact with infected individuals, to err on the side of extreme precaution, even if such a position compromises the civil rights of certain groups. This, along with the inability to develop effective treatment and the existence of AIDS-related complex (ARC), has been a great source of consternation to the general public. The early link of AIDS to homosexuality contributed to a popular stereotype that all PWAs engaged in a lifestyle of sexual gratification. Intravenous drugs users are stereotypically viewed as antisocial deviants who are out of control of their lives and driven by their habit. Because these two groups account for an overwhelming proportion of AIDS cases, a substantial segment of society believe that AIDS is a self-inflicted disease. Consequently, patients do not receive the empathy, sympathy, support, and assistance normally afforded the sick. The social labeling of PWAs as deprived contributes to the feelings of isolation they have, along with loss of family and friends due to fear of contagion or disapproval. The issues of confidentiality and mandatory testing have also raised fears of stigmatization and denial of benefits and services. Thus, the spector of the loss of fundamental opportunities and protections produces extraordinary stress for PWA's and high-risk members. 18 references.