PSYC 3007
Social Judgement Theory and Cultural Considerations
Bachelor of Science in Psychology, Walden University
PSYC 3007: Influence and Persuasion
Social Judgement Theory and Cultural Considerations
HIV, also known as a viral infection transmitted through blood contact, which attacks the
immune system creating aids, is a deadly virus that not many people are fond of. This viral
infection is very taboo worldwide, and those who suffer from the infection are less likely to
disclose that they suffer from such an infectious disease. Though HIV is very serious, just as
they claim Covid-19, many people find it difficult to share such sacred information with others,
which is how the transmission of such disease usually occurs. Or in most cases, individuals are
unaware of their health status due to a lack of testing. Though I do not know of anyone
personally with HIV, I am cautious of who I am around and what infections they may carry, as I
have always been told that having HIV is unpleasant. My view on HIV has shifted while doing
this assignment and will be explained further.
Before watching the assigned Ted talk video by Shereen El-Feki, "HIV – how to fight an
epidemic of bad laws," I was unsure if the presenter was able to persuade me into believing that
HIV is or isn't as serious as I find it to be. My attitude toward HIV is that it is a severe disease
that, if caught, is considered a walking germ. I never could imagine myself or anyone around me
having HIV and being ok with it; hence I do not find it exciting to even discuss. In my country,
the culture in which we come from, mostly anything health-related, is taboo. A prime example is
Covid-19 happening currently and the disclosure of such information. My very best friend
caught Covid and was afraid to share with me because she feared judgment from me as her peer;
Social Judgement Theory and Cultural Considerations
Bachelor of Science in Psychology, Walden University
PSYC 3007: Influence and Persuasion
Social Judgement Theory and Cultural Considerations
HIV, also known as a viral infection transmitted through blood contact, which attacks the
immune system creating aids, is a deadly virus that not many people are fond of. This viral
infection is very taboo worldwide, and those who suffer from the infection are less likely to
disclose that they suffer from such an infectious disease. Though HIV is very serious, just as
they claim Covid-19, many people find it difficult to share such sacred information with others,
which is how the transmission of such disease usually occurs. Or in most cases, individuals are
unaware of their health status due to a lack of testing. Though I do not know of anyone
personally with HIV, I am cautious of who I am around and what infections they may carry, as I
have always been told that having HIV is unpleasant. My view on HIV has shifted while doing
this assignment and will be explained further.
Before watching the assigned Ted talk video by Shereen El-Feki, "HIV – how to fight an
epidemic of bad laws," I was unsure if the presenter was able to persuade me into believing that
HIV is or isn't as serious as I find it to be. My attitude toward HIV is that it is a severe disease
that, if caught, is considered a walking germ. I never could imagine myself or anyone around me
having HIV and being ok with it; hence I do not find it exciting to even discuss. In my country,
the culture in which we come from, mostly anything health-related, is taboo. A prime example is
Covid-19 happening currently and the disclosure of such information. My very best friend
caught Covid and was afraid to share with me because she feared judgment from me as her peer;
