Date of Conferral

2021

Degree

Ph.D.

School

Nursing

Advisor

Donna J. Bailey

Abstract

AbstractAfrican American young adult (AAYA) men living with HIV often lack interventions that address the influence that HIV has on their quality of life, especially their relationships. Self-care collaborative management (SCCM) concerns related to disclosure and stigmatization complicate social, psychological, and SCCM behaviors. Intervention programs addressing these concerns should be based on relevant, accurate information, but this information is lacking for AAYAs. The purpose of this research was to explore and describe the lived experiences of male AAYAs with HIV and their use of SCCM. The study method was qualitative; Husserl’s transcendental phenomenology was the design. The individual family self-management theory was used to contextualize the lived experiences of male AAYAs with HIV, the perceived support from families, and use of SCCM in daily life. Data were collected from six male AAYA who were interviewed by phone. Thematic analysis of data yielded six major themes related to SCCM: support systems, self-care, physical health, mental health, economics, and guilt. All participants shared the challenges they face in their SCCM. Three spoke of the support provided by their family members and significant others, while three talked of only receiving support from their peers. All six participants reported taking charge of SCCM needs, with some more successful than others. The findings highlight opportunities for health care providers to promote positive social change by developing holistic approaches to improving health outcomes in male AAYAs and supporting individuals’ efforts to support themselves.

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