A Narrative Analysis of Hiv-Positive Young Filipino Men Who Have Sex With Men's Hiv Care Journey Amid the Pandemic

Date of Award

5-1-2022

Document Type

Thesis

Degree Name

Master of Arts in Social Psychology

First Advisor

Nico A. Canoy, PhD

Abstract

The COVID-19 pandemic disrupted the lives of many people and posed multiple challenges in the treatment of people living with human immunodeficiency virus (PLHIVs). Past studies highlighted behavioral strategies to manage the challenges. However, studies in the local context remain scant, particularly on how PLHIVs made sense of their HIV care journey during the COVID-19 pandemic. Hence, this study aimed to examine the experiences of five young Filipino HIV-positive MSMs, especially on their HIV treatment. Through Stephens and Breheny’s (2013) integrated narrative approach, HIV care as compromised by government protocols is seen as an overarching public narrative. They made sense of this in six ways under the subthemes labeled as: 1) “I just need to endure it”; 2) “Trust the process”; 3) “I need to take extra precautions; 4) “No one can help me but myself”; 5) “It is for my safety”; and 6) “I need to mediate the situation.” Underlying these narratives are a sense of resignation to the process and taking responsibility, which stem from their pre-pandemic narratives of HIV care. These findings also illustrate how personal narratives and a strong advocacy to end stigma can help facilitate HIV care even in difficult times, which doctors and other HIV care providers can use. Their implications on policies and HIV interventions are also discussed.

Keywords: HIV Care, men who have sex with men, COVID-19, pandemic, narrative analysis

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