Jason tested positive for HIV when he was a freshman student in college. During his college years, he experienced the social stigma attached to contracting HIV. What drives that social stigma?

Some factors that may contribute to the social stigma surrounding HIV include:

1. Attitudes about homosexuality: HIV is often associated with the LGBTQ+ community, leading to discrimination and stigma towards individuals who identify as such.

2. The relative rarity of the disease: HIV is less common compared to other illnesses, which may lead to fear and misunderstanding about the transmission and treatment of the virus.

3. A lack of familiarity with syndromes: Many people may not fully understand how HIV is transmitted or how it can be managed, leading to misinformation and stigma.

4. Cases among celebrities: High-profile cases of HIV among celebrities can perpetuate stereotypes and misinformation about the virus, contributing to the social stigma associated with contracting HIV.