A relationship-based framework of spirituality for individuals with HIV

Abstract

Twenty HIV-positive individuals (10 male, 10 female) participated in interviews on their spiritual life. Interview themes suggest that the HIV diagnosis facilitated a relationship-based framework of spirituality. Relationships that formed this framework were: relationship with God/Higher Power, renewed engagement with life, and relationship with family. Within ''relationship with God/Higher Power,'' subthemes included gratitude for God's benevolent influence, spiritual struggles, and building connections with their Higher Power. Self care, transformation of life goals, and accepting mortality were subthemes for ''renewed engagement with life.'' Subthemes within ''relationship with family'' included finding a sense of purpose, finding support through families, and families as a source of strain. Overall, results suggest that interventions that integrate spirituality need to consider a notion of spirituality that goes beyond church attendance, prayer, and Bible reading. These interventions must include the positive aspects of spirituality and spiritual struggles that individuals with HIV may experience.