The perceived credibility of information sources towards encouraging HIV/AIDS testing among private university students: the case of Daystar University.
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Date
2022-10
Authors
Journal Title
Journal ISSN
Volume Title
Publisher
Daystar University School of Communication
Abstract
This research sought to find out influence of the perceived credibility of information sources on HIV-testing among university students and whether it had any bearing on the rising cases of HIV among this age group. This entailed finding out what information sources students used, their perceived credibility, influence, and any barriers that hindered them from testing. Data was collected using both a softcopy questionnaire and two Zoom focus group discussions. Results indicate that most students preferred formal sources of information over informal ones, particularly if they were seen as having certain characteristics such as expertise, intended-goodwill, and trustworthiness. Information sources that were deemed credible did influence students to undertake a HIV-test whereas those that were not deemed credible did not influence them to undertake one. Undertaking of the HIV-test is imperative as it is through it that one knows their status which then determines the course of care and treatment that should follow. Some key communication barriers mentioned by students were dissatisfaction with the amount and quality of information given by HIV-information source(s), ignoring the platforms where the youth are commonly found such as social media and information sources lacking an interpersonal connection with the students. Some key recommendations were to involve the youth in every aspect of the design and implementation of HIV campaigns so that they may take ownership and accountability of said campaigns as well as having practical sex education which would give the youth the requisite attitudes, skills and abilities to fight HIV and seek out HIV-testing.
Description
MASTER OF ARTS
in Communication
Keywords
perceived credibility, information sources, HIV/AIDS testing, private university students, Daystar University
Citation
Gakaria.J.W.The perceived credibility of information sources towards encouraging HIV/AIDS testing among private university students: the case of Daystar University:Daystar University School of Communication(Thesis)