The Relationship Between Internalised HIV-Related Stigma and Posttraumatic Growth

This study investigated the relationship between posttraumatic growth (PTG), an improvement in functioning as a trauma outcome, and internalised HIV-related stigma (IHRS), the acceptance of societal devaluation by a person living with HIV. Cross-sectional data were gathered from 56 males and 18 females infected with HIV, recruited though five HIV-support agencies in the Republic of Ireland and Northern Ireland. Multiple regression analyses revealed that (A) IHRS was associated with poorer outcomes in the PTG domains associated with veridical growth, (B) mode of transmission of HIV was associated with outcomes in all PTG domains, with the least stigmatised mode of transmission being associated with the greatest degree of growth, and (C) resilience was significantly and positively associated with outcomes in two domains of PTG. The results highlight the relevance of stigma for clinicians wishing to promote growth among those living with HIV. Clinical implications, limitations, and areas for future research are discussed.