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People Living with HIV and AIDS: Experiences towards Antiretroviral Therapy, Paradigm Changes, Coping, Stigma, and Discrimination—A Grounded Theory Study

Author

Listed:
  • Helmut Beichler

    (Nursing School, General Hospital, Medical University Vienna, 1090 Vienna, Austria)

  • Ruth Kutalek

    (Department of Social and Preventive Medicine, Centre for Public Health, Medical University of Vienna, 1090 Vienna, Austria)

  • Thomas E. Dorner

    (Academy for Ageing Research, Haus der Barmherzigkeit, 1160 Vienna, Austria
    Department of Social and Preventive Medicine, Centre for Public Health, Medical University of Vienna, Kinderspitalgasse 15/1, 1090 Vienna, Austria)

Abstract

Background: The experiences in coping with HIV/AIDS from people living with HIV (PLWH) in Austria, Munich, and Berlin regarding adherence, antiretroviral therapy (ART), stigmatization, and discrimination were the main focus of this study. Therapy adherence is the cornerstone for PLWH to reduce disease progression and increase life expectancy combined with a high quality of life. The experience of stigmatization and discrimination in different life situations and settings is still experienced today. Aims: We aimed to examine the subjective perspective of PLWH concerning living with, coping with, and managing HIV/AIDS in daily life. Methods: Grounded Theory Methodology (GTM) was used. Data collection was conducted with semi-structured face-to-face interviews with 25 participants. Data analysis was performed in three steps, open, axial, and selective coding. Results: Five categories emerged, which included the following: (1) fast coping with diagnosis, (2) psychosocial burden due to HIV, (3) ART as a necessity, (4) building trust in HIV disclosure, (5) stigmatization and discrimination are still existing. Conclusion: In conclusion, it can be said that it is not the disease itself that causes the greatest stress, but the process of coping with the diagnosis. Therapy, as well as lifelong adherence, is hardly worth mentioning today. Much more significant is currently still the burden of discrimination and stigmatization.

Suggested Citation

  • Helmut Beichler & Ruth Kutalek & Thomas E. Dorner, 2023. "People Living with HIV and AIDS: Experiences towards Antiretroviral Therapy, Paradigm Changes, Coping, Stigma, and Discrimination—A Grounded Theory Study," IJERPH, MDPI, vol. 20(4), pages 1-16, February.
    • Handle: RePEc:gam:jijerp:v:20:y:2023:i:4:p:3000-:d:1062431
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