[Psychodynamic approach to understanding unprotected sexual intercourse of HIV positive patients]

Despite good knowledge about the transmission of HIV, not all HIV-carriers are consequently using condoms. Three case-studies are presented. A psychodynamic approach is presented containing two hypotheses: (1) The more condom use is experienced as separating the two partners and actualizing their different perspectives for the future, the less consequent will condom use be. (2) The more "sexualization" is working as a defense mechanism against depressive or narcissistic crises, the less protection and concern for the partner will control sexual behavior. Psychotherapeutic implications are discussed.