Abstract
Feasibility and acceptability of a program to promote positive affect, well-being and gender empowerment in women living with HIV
Sarah Bassett, PhD, MA1, Leslie Brody, PhD2, Dana Jack, EdD3, Kathleen Weber, RN, MS4, Mardge Cohen5, Terra Clark, MPH4, Sannisha Dale, PhD6 and Judith Moskowitz, PhD, MPH1
(1)Northwestern University Feinberg School of Medicine, Chicago, IL, (2)Boston University, Boston, MA, (3)Western Washington University, Bellingham, WA, (4)Hektoen Institute of Medicine, Chicago, IL, (5)Rush University, Chicago, IL, (6)University of Miami, Coral Gables, FL
APHA's 2020 VIRTUAL Annual Meeting and Expo (Oct. 24 - 28)
Background: Higher positive affect has been associated with better health outcomes among women living with HIV (WLWH). While programs and interventions intended to increase positive affect among people living with HIV and other chronic diseases have been associated with improved health outcomes, programs have not been tailored specifically for women. Methods: We tailored a program intended to increase positive affect in people living with HIV to a group format for WLWH, including skills such as self-compassion, gratitude, and kindness, and added skills to increase gender empowerment, such as self-advocacy. We then tested the acceptability and feasibility of this program with 8 African American WLWH. Results: The program was acceptable and feasible, as assessed by women’s participation and feedback about program clarity and helpfulness. A few women suggested that optimal delivery point for some skills taught would be shortly after HIV diagnosis. Conclusions: A proof-of-concept program intended to bolster positive emotions and gender empowerment can be tailored for WLWH and is feasible and acceptable. A pilot randomized controlled trial is needed to assess the preliminary efficacy of this program on positive affect and health outcomes for WLWH.
Administer health education strategies, interventions and programs Planning of health education strategies, interventions, and programs Public health or related research Social and behavioral sciences