Group psychotherapy for persons with HIV and AIDS-related illnesses. Int J Group Psychother 1998 Apr;48(2):143-62
Date
05/01/1998Pubmed ID
9563236DOI
10.1080/00207284.1998.11491534Scopus ID
2-s2.0-0032042392 (requires institutional sign-in at Scopus site) 27 CitationsAbstract
Although some individuals are able to cope well with the challenges posed by HIV and AIDS, others experience psychological difficulties. This article reviews factors that facilitate or hinder successful coping with HIV including preexisting psychological functioning, medical health status, quality and adequacy of social support, stress-and-coping style, and perceived expected benefits of treatment. The article reviews studies evaluating the effects of group psychotherapy intervention for persons living with HIV. The article then describes clinical issues encountered in therapy groups for persons with HIV. These clinical issues include the presence of coexisting problems unrelated to HIV/AIDS, disclosure of HIV-positive serostatus to others, making changes in transmission-risk-behavior practices, AIDS-related bereavement and caregiving stress, establishing social supports, adhering to medical care regimens, and developing a positive self-identity as a person living with HIV. Practical considerations of group therapy for HIV-positive clients are also described.
Author List
Kelly JAAuthor
Jeffrey A. Kelly PhD Professor in the Psychiatry and Behavioral Medicine department at Medical College of WisconsinMESH terms used to index this publication - Major topics in bold
Adaptation, PsychologicalCaregivers
HIV Infections
Health Behavior
Humans
Psychotherapy, Group
Self Care
Social Support
Truth Disclosure
