A new social modeling approach for reduction of HIV related stigma and discrimination

SeyedAhmad SeyedAlinaghi MD^{1, 2}* Reza B. Daraei^{1, 2} and Minoo Mohraz MD, MPH^{1, 2}

¹Iranian research Center for HIV/AIDS (IRCHA), Tehran University of Medical Sciences

²Tehran Positive Club, IRCHA

*Corresponding author Email: s_a_alinaghi@yahoo.com; Tel/Fax: +98 21 66 94 79 84

Accepted 09 May, 2012

Abstract

Since HIV/AIDS related stigma exists in all over the world, there is a need for appropriate action against stigma and discrimination by introducing a scientific model to address the issue of stigma. We created a systematic management procedure called "Stigma Reduction Management Model (SRMM version І)". Based on this model, the management of HIV/AIDS care and support institutions is performed thorough a central council participated by trained people living with HIV/AIDS. Subsequently, under the supervision of this council, different practical committees are created. These committees are in close interaction with each other and by using HIV positive and negative volunteers can result in the reduction of stigma.

Keywords: HIV/AIDS, Model, Stigma and Discrimination