Family Functioning and Motivation for Childbearing among HIV-Infected Women at Increased Risk for Pregnancy
Document Type
Article
Publication Date
11-2001
Abstract
This study examined family composition and functioning in a cohort of HIV-infected women of reproductive age living in the southern United States. Participants were predominantly single (82.2%), African American women (86.7%) with annual incomes of less than $10,000 (65.5%), with a mean age of 31.2 years. Using the Family Apgar Scale as a measure of perceived family functioning, women reported that their families functioned moderately well. Multiple regression analysis showed that level of education, life satisfaction, and coping through avoidance and coping by seeking social support were positively associated with family functioning. In contrast, a history of interpersonal verbal violence and a history of drug use were negatively associated with family functioning. These six factors accounted for 26% of the variance. Study findings support the need for comprehensive nursing interventions that include addressing family issues if HIV-infected women are to be provided quality care.
Journal Title
Journal of Family Nursing
Journal ISSN
1074-8407
Volume
7
Issue
4
First Page
345
Last Page
370
Digital Object Identifier (DOI)
10.1177/107484070100700403