A qualitative exploration of the experiences of Black Caribbean MSM living with HIV

HIV is a stigmatised chronic condition which affects approximately 100,000 people on the UK. Sexuality, gender and ethnicity and cultural background are some of the factors which give rise to different experiences of living with HIV; not all experience is well documented. Psychological support is an important part of HIV care; knowledge of socio-cultural context can assist in the provision of therapy through building therapeutic relationships based on understanding. This study looks at Black Caribbean MSM living with HIV and using analytical pluralism, explores their experiences beyond their HIV identity. Through the use of IPA it produces accounts of (dis)connection and inner conflict while a psychosocial lens, utilising the dynamics of the research interview space, notes the self-reliance apparent in the three participants today. It reflects on the methodological benefits of pluralism and considers how counselling psychologists can use the findings to refine their practice when working with sexual and ethnic minorities.

Name dc:type.qualificationname

other

Level dc:type.qualificationlevel

doctoral

Grantor dc:publisher.institution

City, University of London

Year dc:date.issued

2016

Author dc:creator

• Best, Claudine

• BF Psychology