Ways of coping with AIDS: opinion of mothers with HIV children
Silva, R.A.R.d.; Rocha, V.M.d.; Davim, R.M.B.; Torres, G.d.V.
Revista Latino-Americana de Enfermagem 16(2): 260-265
2008
ISSN/ISBN: 0104-1169 PMID: 18506345 DOI: 10.1590/s0104-11692008000200014Document Number: 201588
The research aims at identifying strategies of coping with AIDS used by mothers of HIV positive children to live better with their children's disease. The method used was a descriptive qualitative study. Thirty-three structured interviews were conducted with HIV positive women voluntaries and registered as users in the clinic of the public hospital of reference for the treatment of AIDS in Natal/RN. For data analysis, the method used was thematic content analysis. From the analysis, prevalent categories regarding forms of facing AIDS came up, they were: overprotection and fear; donation; hope; religious belief; underestimation of HIV; hiding the diagnosis; and resignation. This study shows that despite AIDS limitations and barriers, relatives develop strategies that make it possible to face every day problems and live better with it.