Assessment of the Effects of HIV Related Stigma on Self- Esteem of Pupils in Public Primary Schools in Kiambu County

Abstract

With the increased cases of Human Immune Deficiency Virus related stigma, there is increased need to ensure People Living With Human Immune Deficiency Virus don’t face stigma which eventually lowers their self-esteem. Specifically, pupils living with acquired immunodeficiency syndrome have been victims of stigmatization and are often the most understood thus most affected by low self-esteem as a result of stigmatization. There is need for accurate evaluation of the health needs of the community specifically those living with Human Immune Deficiency Virus. This study sought to establish the effects of Human Immune Deficiency Virus related stigma on the self-esteem of pupils in Kiambu County. The study’s main objectives were to establish the effect of discrimination, denial of service, and isolation on pupils' self-esteem in Kiambu County. Besides, the study sought to establish strategies and interventions put in place and how they influence the self-esteem of pupils in Kiambu County facing Human Immune Deficiency Virus-related stigma. The study was supported by the psychosocial theory and the Maslow’s Hierarchy of Needs theory. The study evaluated how discrimination, denial of service, isolation, and interventions in place affect the self-esteem of pupils in Kiambu county. The study used a quantitative research design specifically utilizing descriptive design to identify the relationship between the different variables. A descriptive research design was used since it easily describes various attributes, values, attitudes, and changes in behavior of the respondents. The demographic of interest were 2000 pupils in classes 7 and 8 from public primary schools in Kiambu County. The sample size was 333 students based on a random sampling approach with an assurance level of 95%, which corresponded to 16.65% of the overall population. Standardized questionnaires were used to collect data. The study ensured validity by conducting a pilot test involving 25 participants to assess questionnaire clarity, comprehensibility, and relevance. Reliability was established through a pilot study employing Cronbach's Alpha coefficient, a statistical method assessing internal consistency. The approach enhanced the accuracy and consistency of the research findings, thus ensuring robustness in the data collection process. To ensure the confidentiality of the collected data, each questionnaire was assigned a unique identification code, dissociated from any personal information. Besides, the responses were anonymized, and no identifying details were requested in the questionnaire. The completed questionnaires were collected in sealed envelopes to prevent unauthorized access to the information. The researcher used descriptive data analysis techniques which included means, frequencies, standard deviations and percentages. The researcher used SPSS to be able to come up with comprehensive data. The study established that there was a positive significant relationship between discrimination, denial of services and isolation supported by an overall mean of 2.52. The increase in the levels of discrimination, denial of services and isolation increased the levels of low self-esteem among pupils. Further, the study established intervention measures that can help to reduce the high rates of low self-esteem among pupils. The study recommended that the top management in government and education sector should device strategies and policies that address the psychological needs of children. Also, the research recommended that Education sector introduce a policy for organizations to have family support services and include the pupils affected or infected with Human Immune Deficiency Virus.