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Abstract
The present phenomenological study investigated the experiences of 12 gay men living with HIV/AIDS. Results revealed that following their reactions to the diagnosis, most progressed to viewing their lives and their HIV status more positively. Through data analyses, the researchers developed several continuums that describe the HIV trajectory as having empowering qualities. The continuums focus on several cognitive dimensions (i.e., changes in thinking and affect) that represented participants' experiences of obtaining empowerment. The continuums also acted as progress indicators of how well the participants were coping with HIV. The authors offer several implications for mental health professionals working with this clientele.