HIV Stigma, self esteem and job performance among HIV patients

Abstract

This research was conducted to examine the relationship between HIV Stigma, Self Esteem and Job Performance among HIV Patients. The study was carried out during June to July. In Uganda people living with HIV/AIDS still experience low levels of self-esteem as evidenced in the feelings of negative self-evaluation about oneself. This is caused by stigmatization subjected to the HIV patients both internally and externally such as the negative feelings of shame, and also gossip whereby this makes them feel uncomfortable, isolating themselves from their co-workers something that affects negatively their job performance. The data was collected through interview, documents analysis and discussions. The findings revealed that there is no relationship between HIV stigma and self-esteem, a significant relationship between Self-esteem and Performance and a significant relationship between HIV stigma and Job Performance. The study identified the need to motivate and support HIV patients so as to increase their esteem hence increase their performance in day to day activities.