A qualitative study of women living with HIV: understanding their subjective experiences and psycho-social needs

Omar Din, Meriam and Mohamad, Mardiana (2012) A qualitative study of women living with HIV: understanding their subjective experiences and psycho-social needs. Research Report. s.n, Kuala Lumpur. (Unpublished)

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Abstract

In view of the increasing rate of women with HIV and the complex psychological and social impact experienced by these women, there is a need to conduct an in-depth study to understand the issues and needs of these women. This study intends to explore these needs by conducting a qualitative study on HIV infected women living in Kuala Lumpur. Five HIV positive adult women agreed to participate in this study. Three group focused sessions were conducted using the unstructured interview approach allowing free expression of their subjective experiences. The recorded transcripts of the group focused interviews were analyzed to identify unifying themes and common patterns related to their psychological stress and socio-psychological needs of the participants. Overall, the study indicated that majority participants experiences most of the symptoms of anxiety and depression related to their experience living with HIV. The experience of anxiety was mostly expressed as the fear of facing the AIDS stage of their illness. Positive feeling was mainly associated with feeling of gratitude for the available supportive institution and acceptance by family members. Needs for connectedness with existing family members and sense of belongings to a family were expressed frequently by all participants. HIV-related stigma by the community is felt by most participants. Religious approach was mentioned by all participants as a way to accept their condition. However there is a mix expression of complete and partial acceptance of the HIV experience. Future study on the prevalence of depressive symptoms and anxiety among HIV positive women need to be examined. A group therapy approach integrating psychological, religious and health could be further explored.

Item Type:	Monograph (Research Report)
Additional Information:	2011/33599
Uncontrolled Keywords:	Qualitative study, HIV positive women, psychological and social factors, HIV-related stigma, religious coping
Subjects:	B Philosophy. Psychology. Religion > BF Psychology > BF692 Psychology of sex. Sexual behavior H Social Sciences > HV Social pathology. Social and public welfare > HV5800 Drug habits. Drug abuse
Kulliyyahs/Centres/Divisions/Institutes (Can select more than one option. Press CONTROL button):	Kulliyyah of Islamic Revealed Knowledge and Human Sciences > Department of Psychology
Depositing User:	Sr. Norsyaziela Zulkefli
Date Deposited:	22 Jan 2014 11:58
Last Modified:	22 Jan 2014 11:58
URI:	http://irep.iium.edu.my/id/eprint/33599

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