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Staying in or Coming-Out? A Narrative Blog Post Improves Attitudes Towards People Living With HIV

Sat, May 26, 17:00 to 18:15, Hilton Prague, Floor: LL, Congress Hall II - Exhibit Hall/Posters

Abstract

Despite large education campaigns, HIV/AIDS remains a highly stigmatized disease and is associated with misconceptions and discomfort. HIV-related stigma is harmful to the well-being of people living with HIV (PLHIV). This study aimed at evaluating the extent to which narrative (vs. non-narrative) health communication can improve attitudes and behavioral intentions towards PLHIV. Participants (n = 124) of an online study read one of two versions (first-person narrative vs. objective non-narrative) of a blog-post which included information about HIV and life experiences of PLHIV. The results show that narrative health communication improved cognitive attitudes towards PLHIV and increased the willingness to donate for PLHIV, while it did not affect the affective and behavioral component of attitudes towards PLHIV. Theoretical and practical implications of narrative blogs as a valuable tool in reducing stigmatization processes are discussed.

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