Horizons Projects | Stigma Reduction and Community Mobilization for HIV Prevention via Multimedia Programs

HORIZONS PROJECT
Stigma Reduction and Community Mobilization for HIV Prevention via Multimedia Programs

This study aimed to test the impact of a communication for social change strategy to promote HIV stigma reduction, gender equity, and HIV prevention among youth in Nicaragua. The Horizons program provided technical assistance and capacity building during the study.

Intervention activities included the development and implementation of a new HIV-related story line in a widely viewed, socially conscious telenovela, and an interactive radio show that reinforces and further explores issues raised in the telenovela. These activities were complemented by the promotion of collective efficacy and action for HIV risk reduction via links made between the telenovela and radio show, and interpersonal and community-based activities, such as peer education trainings, meetings with existing local and national NGO networks, and, where possible, public programs. All activities focused on a population aged 13–24 years.

The intervention was evaluated with both qualitative (e.g., focus group discussions) and quantitative (e.g., indicators of gender roles/norms) measures. Participants were interviewed four times: once prior to the start of the intervention, once during the intervention period, immediately after the intervention was completed, and six months after the intervention was completed (to explore lasting effects).

Results of this study will provide globally relevant lessons on how communication for social change strategies can be utilized to reduce HIV stigma, discrimination, and denial, and promote personal and collective efficacy around HIV risk reduction. The results are expected in late 2007.

Location

Esteli, León, and Juigalpa, Nicaragua

Duration

May 2003–December 2006

Horizons and Population Council researcher

Julie Pulerwitz

(For more information about this study, please contact horizons@popcouncil.org.)

Non-Council collaborators

Irela Solorzano, Amy Bank (Puntos de Encuentro)

Rodolfo Peña (Centro de Investigación de Demografía y Salud, National Autonomous University of Nicaragua)

Mary Ellsberg (PATH)

Donor

US Agency for International Development

Publications/Resources
Horizons and Population Council researchers' names appear in boldface type.

2005
Espinoza, Henry. “Using edutainment and social activities to challenge machismo in Nicaragua: The example of Somos Diferentes, Somos Iguales,” Sexual Health Exchange 2: 9–10. (offsite link)