Significant Others of Persons with AIDS

Abstract

Abstract Any life-threatening condition is likely to have an impact on those with emotional or psychological attachment to the affected person. It was anticipated that the nature of the AIDS infection and its frequent association with specific life-styles might have some unique, and as yet poorly identified, bearing on the experiences of significant others. This study was an initial attempt to address the question, “What are the experiences, concerns, and needs of adult significant others of persons diagnosed with AIDS?” using Grounded Theory methods. Ten adult significant others (parents, siblings, friends, and partners), ages 32 to 74, were interviewed in-depth to elicit descriptions of their experiences. Transcripts of interviews were coded and analyzed substantively for major descriptive categories. Seven broad categories were identified and labeled as: “Disclosure,” “Hope vs. Hopelessness,” “Changing Relationships,” “Character Portrayal,” “Advocacy,” “Motivation,” and “Geographical Separation.” Subjects universally reported their experiences as different from any previous experiences. The course of the disease process, the lack of public knowledge and acceptance, and their own needs for community involvement were some of the differences identified. Implications include the need for recognition of and sensitivity to this population as one with often unmet, unique concerns, and the need for future study.