Social Context of Disclosing HIV Test Results: HIV Testing in Tanzania (English)

Document Type

Qualitative Research Studies

Publication Topic(s)

HIV

Country(s)

Tanzania

Language

English

Author(s)

Joe L.P. Lugalla et al Centre for Strategic Research and Development, Dar es Salaam, Tanzania and P. Stanley Yoder Macro International Inc. Calverton, Maryland, USA

Publication Date

September 2008

Publication ID

QRS15

Abstract:

This study examined the circumstances and social contexts in which individuals in Tanzania were tested and counselled for HIV, and patterns in disclosure of test results to partners, family, and friends. The research sought to discover how people experienced these processes based on their own descriptions. The overall objectives of this study were to understand people’s experiences in showing their own HIV test results to others, to discover the pattern of disclosure among individuals tested (whether or not disclosure occurred, to whom, how it was done, after how long), and to discern the role of social relations in facilitating disclosure to others. A better understanding of factors that facilitate disclosure can be useful to programmes that promote disclosure of HIV test results.