Occupational segregation, gender essentialism and male primacy as major barriers to equity in HIV/AIDS caregiving: Findings from Lesotho
2011

Barriers to Gender Equity in HIV/AIDS Caregiving in Lesotho

Sample size: 244 publication Evidence: moderate

Author Information

Author(s): Constance J. Newman, Linda Fogarty, Lucia Nthabiseng Makoae, Erik Reavely

Primary Institution: IntraHealth International

Hypothesis

How can men's participation in HIV/AIDS caregiving be increased in Lesotho?

Conclusion

Addressing gender essentialism and male primacy is essential for equitable sharing of the HIV/AIDS caregiving burden.

Supporting Evidence

  • 90% of HIV/AIDS caregiving is provided in the home, primarily by women and girls.
  • Men's involvement in caregiving could help alleviate health workforce shortages.
  • Gender essentialism and male primacy create barriers to men's participation in caregiving.

Takeaway

In Lesotho, most caregivers for HIV/AIDS are women, and we need to find ways to get more men involved to help share the work.

Methodology

Qualitative methods including key informant interviews and focus group discussions.

Potential Biases

Potential biases due to social norms and expectations regarding gender roles.

Limitations

The sample was convenience-based and not randomly selected, limiting generalizability.

Participant Demographics

70% women and 30% men, primarily Basotho ethnic group.

Digital Object Identifier (DOI)

10.1186/1475-9276-10-24

Want to read the original?

Access the complete publication on the publisher's website

View Original Publication