The role of self-forgiveness and self-condemnation on people living with HIV/AIDS in Ekurhuleni, Johannesburg, South Africa.
Date
2017
Authors
Kufankomwe, MacDonald
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Abstract
While extensive literature has documented factors associated with HIV/AIDS, psychosocial variables associated with the health of persons living with HIV/AIDS (PLWHs) have only begun receiving attention recently. However, the literature on the role of self-forgiveness and self-condemnation remain inconclusive. This study explores the role of self-forgiveness and self-condemnation among people living with HIV/AIDS in Ekurhuleni, Johannesburg, South Africa. It is timely having this study in South Africa as the country has the highest number of people living with HIV/AIDS. Biopsychosocial Model was used to examine the role of self-forgiveness and self-condemnation in PLWHs. Individual In-depth Interviews were conducted with 20 purposefully-selected candidates in Ekurhuleni. Results showed that self-forgiveness contribute in reducing spreading of HIV, promote adherence to HIV treatment and health seeking behaviour, build confidence and hope in PLWHs. Whereas Self-condemnation hinders PLWHs from accessing HIV treatment, promote risk behaviour, and induce anger, stress and depression in PLWHs.
Key words: Self-forgiveness, Self-condemnation, HIV/ AIDS and PLWHs
Description
A report on a study project presented to
The Degree of Social Work
School of Human and Community Development
Faculty of Humanities
University of Witwatersrand, Johannesburg
In partial fulfilment of the requirements for the Social Work