International Journal of Research and Innovation in Social Science (IJRISS) |Volume VI, Issue X, October 2022|ISSN 2454-6186
Mary Wambui Mwaura, Dr. Henry Tucholski, Dr. Cosmas Kagwe, Dr. Rose Gichuki
Institute of Youth Studies, Tangaza University College, The Catholic University of Eastern Africa, Kenya
Abstract: The study sought to establish the effect of psychological counselling on self-acceptance among persons living with HIV & AIDs in Mathare constituency, Nairobi County. A descriptive research design was used in this study. Approximately, 16,600 people living with HIV & AIDS were targeted in Mathare Constituency, Nairobi County. This study sampled 278 PLWH. The sample size was determined using simple random sampling and stratified sampling techniques. A response rate of 91.4% was recorded in the study. Lux and Petosa’s attitude scale, Genberg’s discrimination scale, and Dunn’s self-acceptance scale were the instruments of measure used to collect data. SPSS was used to analyse quantitative data. It was found that PLWH in the Mathare constituency had the same right to quality care as any other patient 24.9% (n=63). Additionally, 20.0% or 51 respondents reported that advice given during counselling helped them accept themselves. Also, all three demographic factors (age, gender, and education level) are significant predictors of self-acceptance among people living with HIV/AIDS. Persons living with HIV & AIDS must find strategies to maintain a positive attitude in order to live a healthy life by embracing their current circumstance and learning to live with it. To improve self-acceptance, the approach and drivers for positivity should be developed so that all people living with HIV & AIDS embrace a positive attitude toward their circumstance. The study finds that counsellors who work with people living with HIV & AIDS in Nairobi County’s Mathare constituency should engage in psychological counselling intervention methods.
Keywords: Psychological counselling, self-confidence, persons living with HIV& AIDS
I. INTRODUCTION
A. Background to the Study
Millions of individuals have been infected and died as a result of the global epidemic of HIV and AIDS (Beingana, Thomas & Comblain, 2005). The UNAIDS’ Global AIDS Statistics (2019) states that, despite the constant efforts to combat stigma and discrimination against People living with HIV and AIDS, certain societies have shown little progress in their attitudes and treatments of People living with HIV and AIDS. Even though there have been endeavors to provide health services for People living with HIV and AIDS, there is still stigmatization against them, as reported in the UNAIDS (2019). People living with HIV & AIDS are routinely subjected to prejudice, humiliation, and embarrassment because of their condition (Williams, 2014).