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Recurrent genital herpes: what helps adjustment?
S O Aral1, C Vanderplate, L Magder
1Division of Sexually Transmitted Diseases, Centers for Disease Control, Atlanta, GA 30333.
Sexually Transmitted Diseases
|July 1, 1988
Summary
Psychosocial adjustment to genital herpes simplex virus (HSV) infections is improved by using cognitive coping strategies and seeking support from a spouse. Avoiding denial and counselor support are linked to poorer adjustment to recurrent HSV.
Area of Science:
- Psychology
- Infectious Diseases
- Public Health
Background:
- Recurrent genital herpes simplex virus (HSV) infections present significant psychosocial challenges.
- Individual experiences with psychosocial adjustment to genital HSV vary widely.
Purpose of the Study:
- To identify factors predicting psychosocial adjustment in individuals with recurrent genital HSV infections.
- To understand the relationship between coping mechanisms, social support, and adjustment to genital HSV.
Main Methods:
- Analysis of interview and psychological test data from individuals diagnosed with genital HSV.
- Statistical correlation analysis to determine relationships between coping strategies, social support, and adjustment.
Main Results:
- Avoidant coping strategies (e.g., denial) and seeking support from counselors were negatively associated with psychosocial adjustment.
- Cognitive coping strategies and social support from intimate partners (spouse/lover) were positively associated with adjustment.
Conclusions:
- Psychosocial adjustment to recurrent genital HSV can be facilitated by open communication with supportive intimate partners.
- Cognitive coping and strong partner support are key to better adjustment, while denial and reliance on professional counseling alone may hinder it.