HIV/AIDS Stigma and Discrimination: Implications for Research Design and Methodology. Two Case Studies.

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Abstract:
A search of the HIV/AIDS research databases for the Caribbean region provides a clear picture of the prevailing trend in HIV/AIDS-related research in the past 20 years. Predominantly the body of work has clustered in three areas: (1) surveys of general populations, of specific vulnerable groups - sex workers, adolescents, etc., or special needs groups (care providers); (2) surveillance surveys; and (3) sero-prevalence surveys. The number of non-clinical studies of persons infected or affected by HIV/AIDS is small. Recent efforts to broaden the HIV/AIDS research focus, however, have come up on significant institutional and cultural challenges that have research design and methodology implications. This paper uses a case study approach to analyze the process and outcomes of two recent independent attempts in Jamaica to study PLWHA or their families. The cases highlight some common issues and challenges in conducting quality non-clinical studies of persons infected or affected by HIV/AIDS and leads to the conclusion that many of the challenges are linked to issues of HIV/AIDS stigma and discrimination. The intention of this paper is to help especially the young researcher, anticipate some of the less obvious challenges and issues associated with research in this area. The paper also provides practical recommendations for overcoming these challenges.