Support group participation among persons with HIV: demographic characteristics and perceived barriers

Support groups are widely available for persons living with HIV and some evidence supports their efficacy. However, limited information exists regarding characteristics of those who utilize HIV support groups. The present study examined demographic characteristics and perceived barriers of attenders and non-attenders of HIV support groups via a mail survey. The 35 respondents were predominantly white (71.4%), male (65.7%), homosexual/bisexual (57.1%) and diagnosed with HIV within the last five years (62.8%). Results suggested that HIV support group attenders had higher educational attainment and a longer time since diagnosis than non-attenders. Respondents who expressed interest in HIV support group participation were diagnosed more recently than those who did not express interest. Respondents who had attended other types of support groups reported fewer perceived barriers to participation in HIV support groups. Overall, findings suggest that the perception of barriers may be related to interest and participation in support groups for HIV and other problems.