The Relationship between Knowledge, Stigma, and Social Support with the Behavior of People with HIV in Preventing HIV-AIDS Transmission
Keywords:
HIV-AIDS; PLWHA; knowledge; stigma; social support; preventive behavior.Abstract
Introduction:The increasing number of HIV/AIDS cases in Palangka Raya City requires an understanding of behavioral factors in people living with HIV (PLWHA), particularly the role of knowledge, stigma, and social support in preventing transmission. This study aims to analyze the relationship between these three factors and HIV/AIDS prevention behaviors in PLWHA.
Method:An analytical observational study with a cross-sectional design was conducted on 130 PLWHA (People Living with HIV) who were purposively selected from a population of 179 people. Data were collected through directed interviews using a structured questionnaire at the VCT Clinic of Dr. Doris Sylvanus Regional Hospital, Palangka Raya (December 2024–June 2025). Univariate, bivariate, and multivariate analyses were performed using SEM-PLS at a significance level of 0.05.
Results:A total of 53.1% of respondents had poor knowledge, 84.6% received good social support, and 96.9% demonstrated good preventive behavior. Structural analysis showed that knowledge was significantly associated with preventive behavior (β=0.259; p=0.007) and social support was the strongest determinant (β=0.387; p<0.001), while stigma had no significant association (p=0.638).
Conclusion:HIV/AIDS prevention behaviors among people living with HIV are primarily related to social support and knowledge, while stigma is not directly related in this model. Comprehensive interventions based on ongoing education, strengthening social networks, and mental health services are needed to maintain protective behaviors.