VERGEL D. DAW-AS
Bachelor of Arts in Political Science
Isabela State University – Cauayan Campus
ABSTRACT
Human Immunodeficiency Virus (HIV) is one of the most epidemic, incurable and stigmatized viruses today. The purpose of this study entitled “Untold Stories: Understanding the Effects of Stigma and Coping Mechanisms of People Living with HIV” is to understand the stigmas being experienced by people living with HIV (PLHIV), the effects of the identified stigmas by people living with HIV and their coping mechanisms in response with the stigmas in the Province of Isabela. Qualitative method is used to deeply understand the effects of stigma and coping mechanisms of people living with HIV. There are 7 people living with HIV respondents in this study who are experiencing stigma and the effects of stigma because of their status. Upon knowing the stigma, the effects of stigma and coping mechanisms of people living with HIV, there will be an understanding of the stigma that they are experiencing and through this, other people can contribute to their coping mechanisms because living with HIV is not easy because of the stigma towards HIV, and people living with HIV.