Impact of Counselling Services on Sexual Behaviours of HIV/AIDS Victims in Kenya

Abstract

This study purposed to determine the impact of counselling services on sexual behaviours of HIV/AIDS victims in Kenya. The study used a case study design. The target population was 300,000 people affected and infected by HIV and AIDS epidemic within Kisii Municipality. From an accessible population of 500 people, a sample size of 239 was purposively selected, out of which 128 PLWHAS were support group members, whereas 74 were not, and 25 were family caregivers. Data were collected using questionnaires. A pilot study was done to determine the reliability of the instruments. The questionnaires yielded a reliability coefficient of 0.7815. SPSS version 12.5 was used to analyse data. The t-tests were employed to establish any differences between support group attendances, gender and stress levels of PLWHAS. On the other hand, the Chi-square test was n employed to establish any association between Mwanyagetinge Community-Based Care and counselling services and the sexual behaviour of PLWHAS. The study concluded that the provision of counselling services in the Mwanyagetinge centre was adequate. After infection, the majority of PLWHAS had their sexual interest reduced considerably. An attribute that can be exploited to embrace positive sexual behaviour like abstinence and the use of condoms. This study recommends that support group therapy be encouraged in churches and schools to avoid isolation and loneliness to sustain positive behaviour and prolong the lives of PLWHAS.