Poverty and HIV/AIDS in Sub-Saharan Africa: Implications for Psychological Well-being

Abstract

The study examines the literature on poverty and HIV/AIDS in an effort to explore the various psychological resources available for affected individuals. Poverty is an increased risk for HIV and AIDS for a majority of the citizens of sub-Saharan Africa, and also lowered their subjective well-being. Furthermore, research evidence revealed that the relationship between poverty and subjective well-being is mediated by the intervention of such psychological variables as locus of control, self esteem, depression and coping strategies among others. Psychological resources for positive well-being that could ameliorate the potentially devastating combined effects of HIV and poverty are suggested.

Keywords:

• poverty
• subjective well-being
• HIV/AIDS
• psychological resources for well-being
• sub-Saharan Africa