The Management of Social Standing: Characterizing the Influence of HIV Stigma on HIV Talk and Testing Behavior in Philippine Key Populations Using a Grounded Theory Approach

Gideon Livingstone P. Bendicion, Augil Marie Q. Robles, Moniq Muyargas, Timoteo Balensoy, Bea Izabeaux T. Mendoza, Kiara Angela A. Sarmiento, ML Demaisip Farinas, Aron Harold G. Pamoso, Angelique Pearl Virtue P. Villasanta, Just Lynn D. Panaligan, Joseph Eleut G. Violago, Ver Reyes, Jonathan Fontilla

Journal of Health and Social Behavior

Published online on November 20, 2025

Abstract

Journal of Health and Social Behavior, Volume 67, Issue 1, Page 135-154, March 2026.
We characterize the way human immunodeficiency virus (HIV) stigma hinders HIV conversations and testing. Using grounded theory principles, we analyzed in-depth interviews of the experiences of select Philippine key populations (groups with high HIV burden)...