The impact of gender discrimination and HIV stigma on women living in North Central Nigeria

Abstract

Gender discrimination and HIV stigma among women living with HIV/AIDS are significant psychosocial and public health issues that influence health and well-being. Most adolescent girls exposed to early and forced marriages, sexual violence, and unwanted practices increase the risk of contracting sexually transmitted diseases like HIV and AIDS. The objective of this study is to explore the influence of psychosocial determinants of gender discrimination and HIV stigma on the health and well-being of women living with HIV/AIDS in North Central Nigeria. The study employs qualitative research using research protocol to interview participants and collect data with the approval of the National Health Research Ethics of the Ministry of Health. Forty participants, male and female aged 18 and above selected through purposive sampling technique from Dalhatu Araf Specialist Hospital (DASH) in Nasarawa State, North Central Nigeria. Data collected were analyzed through thematic analysis using ATLAS.ti8 software to code, transcribe, and present a graphical and words cloud frequency analysis. The findings indicate that forced marriage predominantly among the uneducated and low socioeconomic status is a socio-cultural practice that contributes to gender discrimination and HIV stigma. It leads to psychological problems like anxiety and depression in marriage. The study, therefore, concludes that community-based behavioral intervention strategies should advocate gender equality and anti-discrimination law. Also, public awareness on sex education, forced marriage, skills acquisition, and social support system be encouraged.