AIDS-related knowledge and attitudes: a study of Mauritian and German students

Abstract

This study examined the AIDS-related knowledge and attitudes of 300 Mauritian and German students. Data were gathered with the help of a structured interview schedule that was distributed and collected during school hours. Results indicated that majority of the Mauritian students had a moderate, while German students had a good knowledge of AIDS/HIV, its symptoms, prevention and transmission. Significantly more German students had liberal attitudes toward people with AIDS. The relationship between knowledge and attitudes was significant only for the Mauritian students while the relationship between knowledge and perception of personal risk was significant for both groups. Knowledge, attitudes and perception of personal risk did not significantly differ by age and sex. Key Words: HIV/AIDS, attitudes, knowledge, personal risk Jnl of Social Development in Africa Vol.19(1) 2004: 75-91