Original Research

HIV/AIDS Perceptions, attitudes and awareness of undergraduate students

Christo van Wyk
The Journal for Transdisciplinary Research in Southern Africa | Vol 2, No 1 | a313 | DOI: https://doi.org/10.4102/td.v2i1.313 | © 2006 Christo van Wyk | This work is licensed under CC Attribution 4.0
Submitted: 11 March 2016 | Published: 11 April 2006

About the author(s)

Christo van Wyk, North-West University, South Africa

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Abstract

The central question to be examined revolves around the perceptions, attitudes and awareness regarding HIV/AIDS among undergraduate students at the North-West University (Vaal Triangle Campus). Therefore, the objective of this research was to assess these perceptions, attitudes and awareness regarding HIV/AIDS. A convenience sample of undergraduate students was used in a cross-sectional design (N = 290). A semi-standardised questionnaire as well as a biographical questionnaire was administered. The semi-standardised questionnaire was proven to be reliable. Cronbach’s alpha coefficient of between 0.65 and 0.71 was obtained. Descriptive statistics were used to analyse the data. Results indicated that students experienced and perceived differences with regards to their biographical variables in terms of their perceptions, attitudes and awareness regarding HIV/AIDS. Differences were also found between students in different study modules and study years. The findings revealed that the majority of the students were quite knowledgeable regarding HIV/AIDS. While some students had detailed knowledge of the disease and its prevention, others (the minority) were either completely ignorant about it or deny its existence. Recommendations were made for future research in the area of HIV/AIDS within the context of tertiary education.

Keywords

HIV/AIDS, perceptions, undergraduate students

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Crossref Citations

1. Perceptions of university athletes engaged in soccer, rugby and netball towards people living with HIV
C. Ley, A.C. Lembethe, J. Chiware
International Journal of Health Promotion and Education  vol: 51  issue: 5  first page: 276  year: 2013  
doi: 10.1080/14635240.2013.795044