Abstract

This study aims at analyzing social causes and consequences of labeling in patients with HIV/AIDS in Mashhad in 2009. The qualitative method and case study technique (life history) were used. The patients were all HIV-infected in a behavioral health center in Mashhad. They were all selected based on the types of risky analyses. The data were gathered using deep and semi-focused interviews. The results ultimately prove that the stigma of violation of patients’ human rights and non-compliance to treatment is effective. In line with other studies inside and outside Iran, findings of this research show that stigma HIV/AIDS has both personal and public dimensions.