HIV/AIDS Prejudice in the American Deep South

The Deep South has become the epicenter of the American HIV/AIDS epidemic in the twenty-first century. It is vital that we understand what contributes to the spread of HIV/AIDS in the Deep South, and while many factors contribute, prejudice against persons living with HIV/AIDs is an important component. Analyzing a convenience sample of 955 students at a large university in Atlanta, Georgia, we find that more traditional attitudes toward gender roles and more negative attitudes toward gay men and lesbians are associated with greater HIV/AIDS prejudice. We also find that greater HIV/AIDS prejudice reduces participation in various sexual acts and increases ages at initial sexual experiences, while reducing HIV testing. The article concludes with recommendations for HIV/AIDS prevention and education campaigns in the Deep South.