title: The incorporation of the HIV/AIDS identity into the self over time.
abstract: In the mid-1990s HIV/AIDS transitioned from a terminal illness to a chronic disease because of medical advances. In this qualitative study the author examines how people incorporate the HIV/AIDS identity into their selves at three points in time. Findings demonstrate a five-component process, including diagnosis, postdiagnosis turning point, immersion, post-immersion turning point, and integration. In addition, the disclosure process corresponds to a particular component of incorporation. The author makes comparisons with the incorporation process of other chronic illness. Findings augment the literature on HIV/AIDS, chronic illness, and identity and have practical implications for HIV/AIDS educators.
authors.affiliation: Northern Illinois University, USA.
authors.forename: Lisa M
authors.initials: LM
authors.lastname: Baumgartner
mesh_terms: D000328:Adult; D003674:Defense Mechanisms; D030881:Disclosure; D005260:Female; D015658:HIV Infections / Q000175:diagnosis / Q000523:psychology*; D006801:Humans; D008016:Life Change Events; D008137:Longitudinal Studies; D008297:Male; D008875:Middle Aged; D010353:Patient Education as Topic; D012649:Self Concept; D012944:Social Support; D013997:Time Factors