Pam O’Connor

Stigma,Discrimination and HIV/AIDS

In this chapter, stigma and discrimination and prejudice are examined. In all societies, stigma and discrimination have always existed. Theoretical approaches such as Goffman’s work, (Goffman, 1963) and mental illness are outlined, as well as the psychological effects. The historical and cultural antecedents, characteristics and functions of these areas are important if we are to understand stigma and discrimination and to implement effective interventions. Lastly, interventions which have been used both internationally and in India are described.

Conclusions, Recommendations and Future Directions

India is a country which has experienced many changes in its history, and has shown itself to be capable of great success in social interventions. Culture is not immutable, and can change and respond. Any one intervention, however, is not sufficient to bring about the desired outcomes for women in this dire situation affected by HIV/AIDS. It is only by understanding the interweaving of culture and behaviour that transformation can take place. Any interventions which promotes and supports resilience can build on the existing strengths and knowledge of Indian women, which have been developed partly through social expectations, and complex cultural structures.

Social Ecology Resources Available to Women

This is the second chapter which documents that analysis of the in-depth interviews. In this chapter, the dimension of social ecology is examined. Social ecology, according to the Psychosocial Framework used in this study, is the social capital of a community, and refers to the relationships within the family and the networks or links to groups, religious and cultural institutions and government and political authorities (The Psychosocial Working Group, 2003). The concept of threats and strengths emanating from the social ecology dimension are examined.

The Objectives and Framework of the Study

This chapter explains the impetus and rationale for the research, describes the conceptual framework used for the study and its modification. The methods of data collection the data are presented and the ethical considerations of the study are discussed.

Contextualising Indian Women

This chapter examines the history, and socio-cultural dimensions, relevant to women in the Indian context. It was necessary to contextualise Indian women so that we could share with the reader an understanding of cultural identity. By setting the background of history and culture, the behaviour and attitudes towards Indian women became more real to us as researchers. The other imperative comes from the previous chapter, where it is evident that, in order to bring about change, peoples’ motives and underlying beliefs have to be considered.

The Environmental, Economic and Cultural Resources Available to Women

The study gave the participants, who live in slum communities in Mumbai, an opportunity to express their views. Each and every woman who participated in the study has been represented in this study, and therefore has a voice that conveys her feelings, thoughts and experience in her own words. This is an acknowledgement of their resilience and also honours the care that they provide to family members infected with HIV/AIDS.

The Power of Voice

Social sciences are focused on humans and their relationships with themselves, their community and their environment (Clandinin & Connelly, 1994). It is essential to include the participants’ voices as well as a study of the text, field observations and an account of the research. As a researcher, one is not only observing the participants, but in a reflexive way, also observing the interaction between these actors, and one’s own reactions. In this chapter, our reflections as researchers and the narratives are additional voices.

Research Design and Implementation

Chapter 6 describes the design of the study and how it was implemented. The site of the field research is explained, as well as the sample and recruitment methods. The qualitative methodology described includes using focus group discussion, indepth interviews, observation and community mapping, and the use of cultural interpreters, key informant interviews, reflective journaling, narratives and vignettes. The data analysis includes ethical considerations, the dilemmas encountered, and determination of rigour in the study.

Overview of Hiv/Aids Globally and in India

Chapter 2 examines the global prevalence of HIV/AIDS and interventions undertaken such as: increased condom use, treatment of sexually transmitted infections, reducing the number of sexual partners, harm minimisation with injecting drug users, education of commercial sex workers, and prevention of mother-to-child transmission. Interventions in various countries are described. Then the focus changes to India and its particular vulnerabilities where HIV/AIDS is concerned.