Item – Theses Canada

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OCLC number
1006901741
Link(s) to full text
LAC copy
LAC copy
Author
Bourgeois, Chantal G.,1974-
Title
The impact of AIDS on the life cycle of young gay men.
Degree
M.S.W. -- McGill University, 1998
Publisher
Ottawa : National Library of Canada = Bibliothèque nationale du Canada, [2001]
Description
2 microfiches
Notes
Includes bibliographical references.
Abstract
'Objectives'. Explore and describe the impact of premature life-threatening illness, stigma, multiple loss of significant others, decreased vocational choice and mobility and decreased financial security among young gay men living with AIDS. It was hypothesized that young gay men with AIDS and the elderly experience similar physical, social, and psychological changes, but the cognitive adaptation to these changes are hindered by the non-normative timing of these events. 'Methods'. Thirty-two self-identified gay men with AIDS between the ages of 22 to 44 years were recruited from an out-patient clinic in Montreal. These participants were asked to complete a comprehensive questionnaire, which assessed the respondent's daily stress, impact of HIV, health-related quality of life, ways of coping, multiple loss, dependency on informal and formal supports, and preparation for death. Quantitative methods were used to analyse the data. 'Results'. The hypothesis was confirmed. Respondents reported relatively low levels of health-related quality of life, significant concern over health and financial security, considerable multiple loss, increased dependency on informal and formal supports, proportionally greater use of active coping strategies, and significant concern about discrimination. 'Conclusions'. A comprehensive method of intervention which addresses all of the biopsychosocial aspects to care is proposed. It is suggested that a coordinated multidisiciplinary approach to clinical and research endeavors should be adopted to address the multidimensional obstacles facing young gay men with AIDS.
ISBN
0612506975
9780612506978