Women, particularly low-income women who are members of ethnic minorities, now constitute the most rapidly growing segment of the U.S. population being diagnosed with HIV/AIDS. Yet HIV seropositive women remain largely understudied, and longitudinal research on this group is even more scant. In the present study, as part of a larger investigation (Project STAR), we followed 64 seropositive, inner-city women over a one-year period (i.e., Time 1 to Time 2). In addition to demographics, we assessed a wide variety of psychosocial factors in order to better understand the psychological sequelae of disease progression. Paired samples t-tests revealed that, from Time 1 to Time 2, the sample reported significant declines in their physical health (t=2.570; p <.05); however, they also reported less loneliness (t=3.11; p < .01) and showed trends toward less depression and greater self-esteem. Moreover, multiple linear regression models revealed that decreases in depression from Time 1 to Time 2 were significantly related to increases in levels of spirituality (multiple R2=.445, p <.01; pr=-.357, p <.05) and mastery (multiple R2=.472, p <.01; pr=-.408, p <.01) from Time 1 to Time 2. Implications for improving social and mental health services for seropositive women, with consideration for disease progression, are explored. Directions for future research also are discussed.
Keywords: Women and HIV/AIDS, HIV/AIDS
Presenting author's disclosure statement:
Organization/institution whose products or services will be discussed: None
I do not have any significant financial interest/arrangement or affiliation with any organization/institution whose products or services are being discussed in this session.