Cognition and coping functions in people living with HIV

Abstract

A multiple case study approach was adopted in this study to determine the cognitive and coping functioning in people living with HIV/AIDS (PLWHA). A convenience sample of four PLWHA (male = 3, female = 1) participants were included in the investigation. Three of the participants were white, and one was black African, while only one participant was married at the time of participation. Data related to aspects such as their cognitive processing efficiency, aspirational qualities, cognitive development, individualisation, cognitive conventionality, unusual thinking, cognitive flexibility and intellectualisation were collected using the Rorschach inkblot test and clinical interview. The data were actuarially analysed and organised under themes, namely; cognitive processing, cognitive mediation and cognitive ideation. Findings suggest PLWHA display cognitive vulnerabilities for which targeted psychological, psychiatric, pharmacological and neurological services may be needed.

Keywords:

• HIV/AIDS
• mental health
• cognitive functioning
• Rorschach inkblot test

Acknowledgements

My thanks to David Lewis Wilson, clinical psychologist, who assisted as expert in the Rorschach data coding and interpreta- tion, as well as Prof Vedagiri Ganesan, for his support.