Date of Award

12-16-2020

Document Type

Dissertation

Degree Name

Doctor of Psychology (PsyD)

Department

Graduate Department of Clinical Psychology

First Advisor

Mary Peterson, Ph.D.

Second Advisor

Marie-Christine Goodworth, Ph.D.

Third Advisor

Elisa Rudd, Psy.D.

Abstract

Human Immunodeficiency Virus (HIV) and Acquired Immunodeficiency Disease (AIDS) are complex chronic conditions requiring an equally complex approach to successful treatment. HIV/AIDS affects diagnosed individuals in multiple areas of life, as such, a biopsychosocial approach to treatment is important. Multidisciplinary teams engaging medical, psychology, and social works professionals provide effective support for patients to participate in their care. The intricacy of the disease process in concert with the complexity of treatment require both patients and treatment providers to be fully engaged in care. The patient-provider relationship is of paramount importance to successful outcomes. There are many barriers to successful treatment, amongst them stigma is incredibly impactful. The stigmatization of HIV/AIDS patients has been present since the discovery of the disease in the early 1980s. There are multiple contributing factors to stigmatization, lack of knowledge and understanding of the condition amongst them. Behavioral health consultants are increasingly engaged in multidisciplinary teams providing care to HIV/AIDS patients. This study engaged two first-year cohorts in a PsyD program to determine whether providing comprehensive education regarding HIV/AIDS and stigma to graduate level clinical psychology students increased knowledge and reduced stigma surrounding working with this population. Knowledge and stigma were measured pre and post intervention. It was hypothesized that an increase in knowledge will result in a decrease in stigmatization.

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