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Published on: June 11, 2011
Identity development in adolescents living with HIV
Sybil G Hosek1, Gary W Harper, W LaVome Robinson
1Cook County Hospital, Division of Child and Adolescent Psychiatry, 1835 W. Harrison St., Chicago, IL 60612, USA. shosek@depaul.edu
Journal of Adolescence
|August 15, 2002
Summary
Adolescents with HIV experienced varied impacts on identity formation and future goals. Their identity statuses influenced how they responded to living with HIV, affecting values and aspirations.
Area of Science:
- Psychology
- Adolescent Health
- Infectious Diseases
Background:
- Adolescence is a critical period for identity formation.
- Living with Human Immunodeficiency Virus (HIV) presents unique challenges for adolescents.
- Understanding the intersection of identity development and HIV in adolescents is crucial for supportive care.
Purpose of the Study:
- To qualitatively explore the influence of HIV on identity formation in adolescents.
- To understand how different identity statuses impact adolescents' experiences with HIV.
- To examine the effects of HIV on adolescent values and future aspirations.
Main Methods:
- Semi-structured interviews were conducted with eight HIV-infected adolescents (aged 17-21).
- The study combined identity development measures with open-ended questions about living with HIV.
- Qualitative data analysis focused on personal stories and lived experiences.
Main Results:
- All participants were categorized into either Diffusion or Achievement identity statuses.
- Identity status significantly impacted adolescents' responses to their HIV diagnosis.
- The influence of HIV on participants' values and future goals showed variability.
Conclusions:
- Identity formation processes are significantly affected by the presence of HIV in adolescents.
- Clinical interventions should consider individual identity statuses when supporting adolescents with HIV.
- Further research with larger, diverse samples is needed to comprehensively understand these dynamics.
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