Background

The prevalence of HIV infection continues to rise, including in Indonesia. A key contributing factor is engagement in high-risk sexual behaviors, such as unprotected vaginal, anal, or oral intercourse, multiple sexual partners, and participation in extensive sexual networks, including among men who have sex with men (MSM). These behaviors have been linked to negative self-perception and low self-esteem.

Objectives

This study aimed to examine the association between self-perception, self-esteem, and selected sociodemographic characteristics among people living with HIV.

Material and methods

A cross-sectional study was conducted involving 52 HIV-positive adults aged 19–49. Participants were selected using a simple random sampling method from a list provided by the Bandung City Health Office. Data collection was performed using the Wellness Self-Perceptions Scale (WSPS) and the Rosenberg Self-Esteem Scale (RSES). Multivariate analysis was carried out using logistic regression.

Results

Most participants (67.3%) were aged 19–33, and 78.8% were male. A significant association was found between HIV infection and both self-perception and self-esteem (p < 0.001), as well as marital status (p = 0.02). Individuals with negative self-perception had a 15-fold increased likelihood of HIV infection (OR = 15.0; 95% CI: 2.5–20.1). Those with low self-esteem had a 7-fold increased risk
(p = 0.01). Marital status was identified as a potential confounding variable, influencing psychological factors and sexual behaviors linked to HIV risk.

Conclusions

Strengthening family and community-based education to foster positive self-perception and high self-esteem is essential in HIV prevention efforts.