Psychological inhibition and CD4 T-cell levels in HIV-seropositive women.
OBJECTIVE
This cross-sectional study examined the hypothesis that the capacity for emotional expression is a critical moderator of the emotional support-health relationship.


METHODS
In a sample of 61 HIV-seropositive women without AIDS, coping interviews were conducted to assess HIV-specific emotional support and emotional expression and inhibition (percentage of positive/negative emotion words and inhibition words, respectively).


RESULTS
Hierarchical regression analyses revealed no relationship between availability of HIV-specific emotional support and concurrent CD4 levels and no moderation of emotional expression or inhibition. However, a higher percentage of inhibition words was associated with lower CD4 T-cell levels controlling for health behaviors, demographics, and treatment regimen (DeltaR(2)=.08, P<.05).


CONCLUSIONS
These findings are consistent with prior theory and research showing a relationship between psychological inhibition and deleterious health outcomes.
Eisenberger
Naomi I
NI
Department of Psychology, University of California, Los Angeles, 405 Hilgard Avenue, 90095, USA. neisenbe@ucla.edu
Kemeny
Margaret E
ME
Wyatt
Gail E
GE
D000223:Adaptation, Psychological; D000328:Adult; D018791:CD4 Lymphocyte Count; D003430:Cross-Sectional Studies; D019260:Expressed Emotion; D005260:Female; D015658:HIV Infections / Q000276:immunology* / Q000523:psychology*; D006304:Health Status; D006801:Humans; D007266:Inhibition, Psychological; D008875:Middle Aged; D012044:Regression Analysis; D012944:Social Support