Eighth International Conference on Health, Wellness & Society

Abstract

Despite the fact that HIV/AIDS (H/A) incidence rates among Asian American (AA) communities, particularly among men who have sex with men (MSM), have increased dramatically over the last ten years (CDC, 2016), the testing rates in this population continues to be low. Low testing rates have been connected lack of H/A knowledge, cultural beliefs around sexuality, and HIV related stigma. However, there is a paucity of research exploring service providers’ level stigma and its impact on HIV+ AA MSM. This study addresses this gap in research. Utilizing qualitative research design and theoretical frameworks on stigma, in depth data was gathered from 20 service providers in the San Francisco Bay Area, California who work with HIV+ AA MSM. Findings suggest that service provider stigma towards AA MSM exists in all human services settings across the study area, and that such stigma is a result of ingrained personal beliefs which are impacted by broader societal perceptions. Data suggest that such stigma is increased by limited work experience, lack of H/A knowledge and training, skewed personal perceptions of the AA MSM community, and broader societal stigma. Based on the finding we suggest practice implications at the micro, mezzo, and macro levels.