Investigating the efficacy of coping styles of men with HIV infection

This study investigates the coping methods, styles and strategies of 35 homosexual men who are infected with the human immunodeficiency virus (HIV) but remain asymptomatic. Subjects were recruited from a Montreal AIDS clinic and support groups for men with HIV. The effectiveness of the coping mechanisms were evaluated by correlating these to measures of depression, state and trait anxiety, psychosomatic symptomatology, perceived social support and global health. Data analyses revealed that men with HIV infection were generally well-adjusted and employed a variety of coping techniques. Cognitive attempts at coping were the most frequently used and were related to elevated levels of state and trait anxiety and poorer global health. Perceived social support proved to be an important determinant of global health, and a buffer for anxiety. Religious identity was related to an enhanced perception of social support, while individuals who had sought counselling were reported to be more anxious and in poorer health. Finally, education level was related to the development of effective and diverse coping methods, styles and strategies. The implication of these results and suggestions for further research are discussed