Social cognitive determinants of HIV/AIDS control and coping

The study “Social Cognitive determinants of HIV/AIDS Control and Coping: a case of Levolosi” aimed at examining peoples’ knowledge and awareness about the severity of HIV/AIDS, as well as their coping and control mechanisms. It investigated willingness 10 reveal people’s sero-positive status to family and community members. It also focused on readiness to render moral and material support to HIV/AIDS patients. The Social Cognitive Models and Health Action Process Model guided the study. The researcher assumed that the feelings of individuals about a threatening illness would most likely influence health positive behaviours towards caring for community members living with disease. The study was conducted in Levolosi Ward, Arusha Municipality. A total of 599 respondents participated in the study. A questionnaire with closed questions was used.The data analysis was through Statistical Package for Social Science (SPSS) programme. The findings revealed that the majority of respondents were aware of the severity of HIV/AIDS. Few of respondents had misconceptions about HIV/AIDS transmission. Many of respondents reported willingness to disclose their seropositivity and to care for relatives and neighbours with HIV/AIDS. It was concluded that people in Levolosi, Arusha Municipality were highly aware of the HIV/AIDS pandemic and its ramifications. It was recommended that relevant intervention be made available to the community members in the area of study.