Single HIV infected women’s experiences with HIV and coping strategies: The case of Chitungwiza and Epworth in Zimbabwe

Abstract

The existence of HIV among people in sexual relationships has become one of the major factors leading to dissolution of relationships thereby creating single-parents in large numbers. Despite the growing prevalence of HIV infected single women, relatively few psychosocial support systems are available for them. There is not much information addressing this subject specifically focusing on women single parents in the view of HIV and AIDS. This study analysed HIV infected single women experiences with the infection, single parenting and their coping strategies in Zimbabwe. We found that their experiences with both HIV and single parenting were mainly negative and characterised by prolonged episodes of threatened psychological and social wellbeing. Their experiences also determined their coping strategies some of which, to some extent serve to exacerbate the spread of HIV and also negatively affect their psychosocial wellbeing. Efforts to provide psychosocial support and practical guidelines targeting HIV infected single women need to be strengthened. Key words: HIV, single parenting, coping strategies, HIV infected women.