‘A part of me knew this would happen one day’: experiences of young people with HIV/AIDS

Abstract

The objective of this study was to understand the social representations of HIV-positive young people about living with HIV/AIDS. A qualitative study, based on the Theory of Social Representations, carried out with 16 young people in outpatient follow-up. The collection took place between May to October 2022, through semi-structured interviews. For data processing, the lexical analysis technique, operationalized with the aid of the IRAMUTEQ software. The representation strongly associated with the diagnosis of HIV is related to lack of knowledge, prejudice and acceptance, also presenting positive elements such as a new beginning. The categories: ‘Positive diagnosis for HIV: the 'me' of now’; ‘HIV in the face of ignorance and stigma’ and ‘Interpersonal relationships: dialogue, acceptance and respect necessary for young people’. Was understood that the social representations of young people with HIV reflect their condition in society. Data show that there are different ways of experiencing HIV, often represented by fragility, resignation, and other times by strengthening. In order to minimize the vulnerability of young people to exposure to HIV and the risks of living with stigma and social prejudice, it is necessary to adopt strategies to raise awareness of the disease and to expand the dissemination of public policies.