Abstract

The aim of this research was to understand the social representations, prejudices, and attitudes of adolescent students toward HIV in a public school in Medellín. Methodologically, the study was guided by a hermeneutic paradigm and a qualitative approach, employing a case study design within an educational institution. Data were collected through interactive techniques. The main findings reveal the persistence of erroneous social representations about HIV, largely supported by myths and unfounded beliefs—mainly associated with sexual practices, physical contact, and irrational ideas about the virus's origin and modes of transmission. Although some participants demonstrated basic knowledge about HIV transmission, this understanding was often intertwined with negative stereotypes, emotions such as fear, and discriminatory attitudes. The study also revealed a low perception of risk and limited awareness regarding self-care practices and condom use, which increases the vulnerability of this population. It is concluded that lack of knowledge and stigmatized information about the diagnosis are key factors contributing to the reproduction of discriminatory social attitudes toward people living with HIV. Therefore, it is essential to strengthen prevention and education programs that go beyond promoting condom use, aiming instead to provide adolescents with accurate and comprehensive knowledge about HIV.

Keywords:
Adolescent; Prejudices; Beliefs; Myths; HIV/AIDS