Experiences of Students with HIV in Facing Social and Family Stigma in Swadiri Institute Environment

Yedya Kezia Valentine Suwarso (Cenderawasih University)
Hasmi Hasmi (Cenderawasih University)
Novita Medyati (Cenderawasih University)
Arius Togodly (Cenderawasih University)
Rosmin M. Tingginehe (Cenderawasih University)
Sarce Makaba (Cenderawasih University)

Formosa Journal of Science and Technology (FJST)
Vol. 4 No. 5 (2025): May 2025

The aim of this research is to find out how students with HIV experience facing social and family stigma within the Swadiri Institute environment. This research uses a qualitative research type of phenomenological design. Students living with HIV face various challenges, ranging from emotional reactions such as fear, shame, and depression, to social pressure due to stigma and discrimination. HIV transmission among students is largely influenced by risky sexual behavior, especially after consuming alcohol, as well as low understanding of reproductive health. However, support from family, peers and the campus environment plays an important role in helping them deal with this condition. This support not only provides  emotional  strength,  but  also  encourages adherence to treatment, especially regular ARV consumption, so that lives.