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Coping and affectivity in persons with HIV/AIDS

Abstract:

Objective: Differences in coping with HIV seroposivity between drug users and no-drug users were examined, and the relationship between coping and affectivity were explored. Design: Cross-over, comparison of two groups. Method: 105 HIV seropositive subjects (50 drug users and 55 no-drug users) were evaluated using a questionnaire that agroup scales of coping with HIV seropositivity, mood state variables (depression, anxiety and affectivity) and the objective and subjective social support. Results: No differences were found in the coping forms between groups, nor respect to the affectivity. A correlational analysis showed that active coping, behavioral and cognitive, were associated (p < 0,05) with higher positive affect (r= 0,45) and lower anxiety (r= 0,24), while avoidance coping were associated to higher depression (r= 0,31), negative affect (r= 0,31), trait anxiety (r= 0,33), and state anxiety (r= 0,21). Conclusion: The results of the study are congruent with found in the literature, that show a positive relationship between active coping forms and affectivity, as well as a negative associationship of this with avoidance coping.