A study on types of AIDS perception : Focus on Q-methodology Application

The purpose of this study is to analyze the cognizance of AIDS by applying the Q methodology, as well as to provide preliminary data for developing AIDS prevention campaigns. A Q population was identified from a literature search and in-depth interviews. The study process analyzed the P sample, the study participants, using the Q-sorting methodology to produce the Q sample, which is composed of statements from October 20 to 27, 2014. 20 participants (analyzed) 27 statements and 3 types of AIDS cognizance were produced as a result. These types are 1(N=9), 2(N=6), and 3(N=5), which correspond to denial, social support, and selfish motivation, respectively. The members of the denial type had a strongly negative opinion about AIDS, whereas the social support type showed a friendly gesture. The selfish motivation type took a neutral stance. The common and different points, as well as the distinctive features of these types, were studied. The accomplishments of this study include suggesting an efficient strategy for making an AIDS control policy, as well as a qualitative analysis, through the employment of the Q-methodology, which is useful for understanding human beings' (internal viewpoint).