Becoming Positive: Exploring Meaning Making in Hiv Positive Women

The diagnosis of HIV has been associated with fears of isolation, stigma and rejection. Numerous factors surround the understanding of HIV and intensify the psychological stress associated with its diagnosis. The present study aims to explore the process of meaning making (as conceptualized by Park&Folkman, 1997) as a coping mechanism in HIV positive women. This qualitative study involved in-depth interviewing of six women participants diagnosed with HIV from Delhi, India. Data was thematically analyzed and reveals the presence of four overarching components: (i) an initial phase of appraisal, (ii) intervention from an external force or the strain from deteriorating circumstances that propelled the women into action, (iii) beginning of an exploration and (iv) process of reappraising the meaning of the situation. The narratives also reveal that the meaning making process facilitates psychological well-being and positive emotions. The results have implications for the health promotion of HIV infected people.