DOING THE RIGHT THING - THE SYMBOLIC MEANINGS AND EXPERIENCES OF HAVING AN HIV ANTIBODY-TEST

Very few studies have been undertaken to explore in depth the reasons why individual seek HIV antibody testing. This paper discusses the soc io-cultural meanings surrounding the HIV antibody test, using the find ings from a qualitative study directed at understanding why 'low risk' individuals make the decision to have an HIV test, their experiences of testing and their use of the result, especially in negotiating sexu al relationships. It is concluded that the less obvious reasons for ta king the test include pressure from parents or lovers, as a symbolic c losure or commencement of a sexual relationship, the discourse of mutu ality, the privileging of 'knowledge' and notions of responsibility an d purity. Implications for AIDS education programs and policy are addr essed.