"I Created Something New with Something that Had Died": Photo-Narratives of Positive Transformation Among Women with HIV

AIDS Behav. 2015 Jul;19(7):1275-87. doi: 10.1007/s10461-015-1000-7.

Abstract

A dearth of research describes the strengths of women living with HIV (WLH), yet understanding these strengths can promote women's well-being and healthy behavior. This analysis explores positive life transformations among WLH through photo-stories. WLH (N = 30) from three U.S. cities participated in a pilot photovoice project to tell their story of HIV. The project included three group meetings, an individual interview, and a public exhibit. Using qualitative strategies of theme and narrative analysis we identified positive transformations in women's photo-stories. Participants were African American (83 %) and low income (83 %). Women described four major positive transitions in their lives including transformations related to healthfulness, spirituality, self-acceptance, and confidence. Despite challenges, WLH experience positive transformation and growth experiences. Understanding these transformative changes can shed light on women's motivation to make healthy life changes and thus frame strengths-based interventions for WLH. Photovoice itself is a potential strategy to promote WLH's strengths and health.

MeSH terms

  • Adaptation, Psychological*
  • Adult
  • Black or African American / psychology*
  • Female
  • HIV Infections / diagnosis
  • HIV Infections / psychology*
  • Health Behavior
  • Humans
  • Interviews as Topic
  • Narrative Therapy
  • Photography*
  • Poverty
  • Qualitative Research
  • Resilience, Psychological
  • Self Concept
  • United States