Psycho-Social Factors In Voluntary Counselling And Testing (VCT) – A Social Work Investigation In Windhoek, Namibia.

ABSTRACT

The main purpose of the study was to collect baseline data on psycho-social factors affecting utilization of VCT services amongst the 15 to 49 year old people in Windhoek. A cross sectional exploratory study design was utilized and the study generated baseline data using quantitative methods. Data were collected from 200 respondents using a standard structured questionnaire that was administered face to face by the researcher and two assistants. The sample design for the household survey was a stratified two-stage probability sample. The findings suggest that there was more preference to receive HIV results on the same day. The preference by participants to receive results on the same day may suggest that rapid HIV testing is preferable and might be one way that can be used to improve collection of results. For social support, the findings seem to suggest that parents as well as church pastors are very supportive of individuals going for HIV testing. However, tested individuals were equally likely as those not tested to agree that the church pastors and parents would provide them with support if they tested HIV positive. Outcome expectations and factors related thereof were identified to be important in distinguishing those who had been tested for HIV from those who had not taken HIV testing. More importantly, those who tested for HIV before were more likely to report that knowing one’s HIV status brings peace of mind, helps access ARVs and is important for positive living as compared to their never tested counterparts. Thus, demand creation strategies for HIV testing may need to emphasize on these key benefits of getting tested.