Support groups for people living with HIV/AIDS: a review of literature

For more than a decade, support groups have been proposed as a key intervention for people living with HIV and AIDS (PLWAs). Despite this fact, there are still only a few articles that evaluate and compare outcomes of support groups so as to provide a scientific base for their usefulness and effectiveness. The purpose of this article is to critically review selected published literature on support groups and to assess gaps in research. In general, the reviewed literature evaluated support groups as an effective intervention, which is evident for this widespread support. However, because diverse populations of PLWAs have specific needs, the group and intervention should be designed to meet those needs. Specific recommendations for further research about support groups for PLWAs are offered.