Knowledge regarding HIV/AIDS and habits related to risky transmission behaviors: A survey of an italian sample

Journal title PSICOLOGIA DELLA SALUTE
Author/s Sofia Falaschi, Paolo Antonelli, Gioele Salvatori, Daniel Giunti, Davide Dèttore
Publishing Year 2026 Issue 2026/1
Language Italian Pages 21 P. 57-77 File size 162 KB
DOI 10.3280/PDS2026-001005
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Since the 1980s, enormous strides have been made in understanding and treating AIDS, as well as in raising public awareness. Nevertheless, significant gaps in knowledge and false myths about the topic still exist, which promote risky behaviors, discourage people from undergoing screening tests, and contribute to the stigmatization of HIV-positive individuals. Our study involved a sample of 5,310 people who were asked to complete a questionnaire aimed at investigating their level of knowledge about HIV and AIDS, as well as their sexual habits related to risk behaviors for transmission. Our study also had a psychoeducational purpose. The sample showed a good level of knowledge regarding HIV/AIDS. However, the results highlighted a poor understanding of HIV transmission modes and risky behaviors, as well as low condom use during sexual intercourse and a low uptake of screening tests. Although the sample demonstrated a good knowledge of the topic, the results indicated that some areas require attention and should become the target of future awareness campaigns.

Keywords: HIV, sensibilization, Italian sample

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Sofia Falaschi, Paolo Antonelli, Gioele Salvatori, Daniel Giunti, Davide Dèttore, Conoscenze a riguardo di HIV/AIDS e abitudini rispetto ai comportamenti a rischio di trasmissione: un’indagine su un campione italiano in "PSICOLOGIA DELLA SALUTE" 1/2026, pp 57-77, DOI: 10.3280/PDS2026-001005