AIDS--public knowledge in Norway 1986.

This paper studied different kinds of knowledge related to HIV/AIDS in the adult Norwegian population. The empirical basis stems from two national interview surveys conducted in 1986. Data were analysed using contingency table analysis and multiple classification analysis (MCA). Totally, 64% knew that HIV/AIDS is caused by a virus. Homosexuals, drug-users, prostitutes and bisexuals were mentioned most often as groups at high risk of becoming infected. As to knowledge about the transmission of the infection, 95% were aware that sex between men and blood transfusion may be channels of infection, 93% recognized contaminated needles, and 85% sexual contact with a person of the opposite sex as possible routes of transmission. A substantial number of respondents were uncertain whether the infection can be transmitted through social contact. Knowledge about HIV/AIDS increased with diminishing age and with increased level of income and education. The direct effect of age upon knowledge may be explained by the theory of selective exposure, which predicts that the seeking of information is influenced by personal needs and interests. The social gradient of knowledge about HIV/AIDS reflects the general flow of information in a social system, and differences in the use of the media by the different social subgroups. Finally, the paper underlines the importance of filling the gaps in the public knowledge about how HIV/AIDS is not transmitted, in order to prevent unfounded fear, stigmatisation and discrimination.