An exploration of the impact of being HIV+ on the lives of single mothers in Kenya

Considerable research has been devoted to fighting and better understanding the spread of HIV/AIDS; however, this research fails to understand the well-being of HIV+ individuals in a broader context. A substantial number of individuals in Kenya are infected with HIV, and women are disproportionately affected. Women are particularly vulnerable to HIV/AIDS due to cultural practices including polygamous marriages, wife inheritance, and male dictation on sexual practices, leaving women voiceless. The purpose of this study is to explore, through the use of qualitative diaries, how being HIV+ has impacted the lives of single mothers in Kenya. This study used solicited text and drawings from five Kenyan HIV+ single mothers over 30 days. These diaries allow researchers to understand the person and their experiences, rather than the patient and disease. Key results indicate that women viewed themselves as dying from HIV/AIDS rather living with HIV/AIDS. When asked to draw themselves 5 years from now the women drew coffins. The women had low self-worth and lived in communities where they were viewed as shameful. HIV status impacted their daily lives. While overall themes of dejection emerged, the women also expressed feelings of hope, such as better lives for their children, a cure, and escaping prostitution. This research holds the potential to inform the health care community about more appropriate ways to approach and improve the lives of single mothers living HIV+. This research is useful to health care providers, social workers, program planners, and others attempting to improve the lives of these individuals.