“Show Me the Love:” Understanding Barriers to Sexual Intimacy Among Persons with HIV/AIDS

The diagnosis of HIV & AIDS complicates sexual activity. Physiological and psycho-social

factors such as body image, fear of rejection, and stigma can lead to shame and isolation.

The purpose of the present study is to gain a greater understanding of the range of barriers to

sexual intimacy that persons living with HIV and AIDS (PHA’s) encounter, as well as the

strategies this population may usilize when successfully forming new sexual relationships. A

community-based research approach using qualitative analysis will be used. Specifically,

twenty persons living with HIV & AIDS will be recruited from Guelph and the surrounding

area. Semi-structured interviews will be conducted and data will be analyzed using thematic

analysis. The findings from this study will help the AIDS Committee of Guelph & Wellington

County to better serve, and inform, its clientele and will advance the academic literature by

improving understanding of how PHA experience intimacy.

Faculty Supervisor:

Robin Milhausen

Student:

Partner:

AIDS Committee of Guelph and Wellington County

Discipline:

Sociology

Sector:

Health and Related Sciences & Technology

University:

University of Guelph

Program:

Accelerate

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