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Original document was submitted as an honors thesis requirement. Copyright is held by the author.

Document Type

Thesis

Abstract

Our research project surveyed students at Pace University (both on the New York City and Pleasantville campuses) and looked into their understanding of Human Immunodeficiency Virus (HIV) & Acquired Immunodeficiency Syndrome (AIDS). The goal was to better understand students’ knowledge regarding HIV/AIDS, and the ways in which they might be misinformed. Our research looked to see if there was any stigma surrounding student’s perceptions of the virus and its transmission. The study also asked students about their sexual practices. Specifically, we utilized an Institutional Review Board approved survey, to ask students about their sexual behavior to see if they were taking the necessary steps to protect themselves from contracting HIV and AIDS. The survey included questions on HIV general knowledge, transmission, and prevention methods. This included a section on pre-exposure prophylaxis (PrEP) and post-exposure prophylaxis (PeP). The survey was conducted online and students were sent a link to complete the survey on their own. In total 202 students participated in the study and 169 complete responses were recorded. The demographics of the respondents were representative of the Pace University community and the student body. The results of the research supporting the finding that although students are aware of the measures to prevent against HIV, this knowledge does not always translate over to student sexual behaviors. In relation to students and their perception of HIV, the research found that some of this stigma still exists, but students who are more educated on HIV are less likely to maintain this stigma. Based on the findings of this project a number of suggestions for Pace University and for the Pace Health Care Center have been outlined. Through an integration of these suggestions, Pace University can better support students in their understanding of HIV the different resources available to students while at Pace.

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