Stigma associated with AIDS: A meta-analysis

Performed a meta-analysis of 21 studies (1986-1993) to determine the degree of stigma associated with AIDS compared to the degree of stigma associated with other comparable conditions (i.e., hepatitis, herpes, leukemia, and other cancers). Focused contrast analyses indicated a greater degree of stigma expressed toward individuals with AIDS than toward individuals with other comparable illnesses, with college students expressing a slightly higher degree of stigma than health professionals. A greater degree of stigma was obtained with scales measuring intended social interaction than was obtained with scales containing items measuring attitudes and values. Effect sizes did not differ significantly as a function of the type of control condition used. A list of studies used in the meta-analysis is appended.

• Determinants of Health
  • Stigma/discrimination
• Population(s)
  • General HIV+ population