Tshilidzi Mashamba
University of Venda, South Africa
Title: The use of gain versus loss framed messages in encouraging university students to test for HIV
Biography
Biography: Tshilidzi Mashamba
Abstract
Introduction:Framed messages have been used as one of the intervention strategies in encouraging people to take disease detection tests. Although there is no cure for HIV and AIDS, testing and early diagnosis have tremendous benefits. According to the Prospect Theory, decision-making is influenced by the way information is framed or delivered. Aim:The aim of this study is to assess the impact of gain and loss framed messages on encouraging HIV testing among university students. Method: Participants: University students will be recruited to participate in the study. Ethical issues: Participants will be informed regarding the purpose of the studyand that participation was voluntary. After agreeing to participate they will be requested to sign the consent forms. Materials:Two versions of information paragraphs about potential risks or benefits associated with taking or not taking HIV test orwill be used, one containing a gain-framed message, and the other one a loss-framed message.A semi-structured interview guide which contains three sections will be used: The first section will be used to collect their sociodemographics, and the second section will contain questions on their sexual practices, previous STI diagnoses, and type of contraceptives they use, and the final section will contain questions gain framed messages followed by loss framed messages. Posters containing both loss and gain framed messages will be used in the facilitation of the interviews