Concealment, communication and stigma: The perspectives of HIV-positive immigrant Black African men and their partners living in the United Kingdom. (December 2016)

• Record Type: Journal Article
• Authors: Owuor, John OA; Locke, Abigail; Heyman, Bob; Clifton, Andrew
• Is Part Of: Journal of health psychology. Volume 21:Number 12(2016:Dec.)
• Page Start: 3079
• Page End: 3091
• Publication Date: 2016-12
• Subjects: African immigrants -- concealment -- disclosure risks -- family -- HIV -- psychosocial support -- stigma; Clinical health psychology -- Periodicals; 613.019
• DOI: 10.1177/1359105315593379
• Languages: English
• ISSNs: 1359-1053

Abstract

This study explored the perspectives of Black men, originally from East Africa, living in the United Kingdom and their partners on what it means to live with diagnosed HIV. This article reports on concealment of HIV-positive status as a strategy adopted by the affected participants to manage the flow of information about their HIV-positive status. Analysis of the data, collected using in-depth interviews involving 23 participants, found widespread selective concealment of HIV-positive status. However, a few respondents had 'come out' publicly about their condition. HIV prevention initiatives should recognise concealment as a vital strategy in managing communication about one's HIV-positive status.