A discourse analytical view of two South African case studies on the effects on HIV/AIDS in marriage

Abstract

South Africa is the country with the highest incidence of HIV / AIDS in the world. In order to understand the complex phenomenon experienced by people infected and affected by HIV / AIDS in South Africa, the diverse cultural landscape, amongst other factors, needs to be explored. In a qualitative study, the authors explore the impact of this phenomenon on marriage. Using psychiatric texts and by employing the method of Discourse Analysis on two case studies, different ways of dealing with HIV / AIDS in marriage and the way it dramatically influences marriage are analysed. The impact of these previously untold stories of HIV / AIDS in marriage is seen especially in the lives of spouses who respond differently when managing this problem. In coping with the trauma of HIV / AIDS, spirituality plays a role. Using the biopsychosocial / spiritual-model within a post-modern view of therapy, the role of spirituality is described. The research, viewed through a culture-sensitive lens, acknowledges the different ethical dilemmas involved. Certain limitations in the research methodology are discussed and the need for further research is highlighted.