Relationship satisfaction of HIV-positive Ugandan individuals with HIV-negative partners

Abstract

Challenges of relational coping are well documented in the literature on couples and chronic illnesses, but there is significantly less research on the psychological aspects of couple relationships and HIV, particularly in international contexts. Coping with the uncertainty of illness progression, family planning, disclosure to friends and family, social isolation and stigma, fear of transmission, sexual intimacy, changes to social and physical functioning, and receiving and providing care pose special challenges for couples with discordant HIV statuses. This study examined the correlates of relationship satisfaction in Ugandan HIV-positive individuals seeking treatment at a community clinic. Relationship satisfaction of HIV-positive individuals was uniquely predicted by their couple identity and depression, underscoring the importance of mental and relational health in HIV/AIDS.

Keywords:

• serodiscordant couples
• HIV/AIDS
• couple identity
• relationship satisfaction
• Uganda

Acknowledgements

We gratefully acknowledge the consultation of Joseph Greer and Kiaran Honderich in the planning stages of this project, the translation and research assistance of Augustine Ssebuuma, and Counselor Nalongo, administrative support from Dr. Abdallah Nkoyoyoo (Executive Director, TASO) and Sophie Nantume (Secretary, TASO), the hospitality of the Sephembwa family, and funding support from Williams College. We are especially grateful to all the Ugandan participants who shared their thoughts with us.