Tswana-speaking students’ perceptions of HIV/AIDS and poverty

Abstract

This article addresses the perceptions of the causal relationship between poverty andHIV/AIDS among selected Tswana-speaking students by using the theoretical frameworkof one of the theories of symbolic interactionism, also known as the Fantasy ThemeAnalysis or Symbolic Convergence theory. This theory is designed to provide insights intothe shared world views of communicators, which would result in a better understandingof a rhetorical situation. This understanding will enable communication agents toarticulate more audience-centred messages in their combat against HIV/AIDS.This article describes the theoretical framework and research method that have beenused. After the synthesis of the findings, recommendations are made with regard tocommunication with this specific target audience, but suggestions are also given toaddress any target audience. The research indicates that there are two shared rhetorical visions exist. Almost 74% ofthe respondents shared the vision that poverty is the cause of AIDS, although most ofthem mentioned that unprotected sex with multiple partners plays a major role. Theother vision, shared by 26% of the respondents, perceives unprotected intercourse withseveral partners, and not poverty, to be the cause. The lack of values and morals as wellas uncontrolled sexual drives are perceived as contributing factors.