Abstract:
To identify psychosocial variables related to the use of coping strategies by HIV-positive
South African women diagnosed during pregnancy, structured interviews were conducted
with 224 HIV-positive women at antenatal clinics over a period of two years. Two coping
styles, active and avoidant coping, were assessed using an adapted version of the Brief COPE. Psychosocial variables associated with changes in coping over time were identified
with mixed linear analysis. Increases in active coping were associated with decreasing levels
of internalized stigma and depression, increasing self-esteem and positive social support,
knowing someone who is living with HIV, being physically healthy and living above the
poverty line. Increases in avoidant coping were associated with increasing internalized
stigma and depression, lower levels of self-esteem, HIV-knowledge and lower levels of
education. Recommendations are made for psychological support services to strengthen
women’s ability to cope and enhance their health and that of their infants.
