The feminization of HIV/AIDS: An analysis of its impact on women in Trinidad and Tobago

Women in Trinidad and Tobago are at increasing risk for HIV. This research highlights the various ways HIV/AIDS affects women: physically, socially, and economically. This dissertation study uses a combination of qualitative and quantitative research methodologies, informed by stratification theory. Face-to-face interviews were conducted with 50 HIV-positive and 50 HIV-negative women using semi-structured questionnaires. Samples were drawn from various urban sites throughout Trinidad and Tobago. The principal research question asks whether low socio-economic status increases female vulnerability to the virus, as is witnessed in other parts of the developing world. A number of themes are examined to determine the relationship between socio-economic status and the impact of HIV/AIDS on women's lives in Trinidad and Tobago. These measures address social background, socio-economic status, context and need, distribution of power in personal relationships, individual histories of violence and high-risk behavior, and subjective perceptions of HIV risk. The findings suggest that gender, status, class, and other economic, cultural and behavioral factors have left women in Trinidad and Tobago with limited autonomy over their own bodies, and decisions regarding safer sexual behavior. While these factors are all contributors to the growing HIV risk among women, female poverty and powerlessness are the two primary drivers behind the spread of HIV within this local setting. Recommendations are provided to contribute to efforts aimed at reducing the spread of HIV among this vulnerable population, and to help develop guidelines to improve the quality of their lives.