The Role of Perceived Control in the Adjustment of some HIV-Positive People

Abstract

This paper is concerned with a study on the role of perceived control over illness and its association with psychological adjustment in HIV-positive individuals. Following a discussion and critical assessment of predominant theories of perceived control, several cases are recruited and approached to study the significant role of perceived control that might involve in the adjustment of people who are diagnosed as HIV positive. More specifically, Two dimensions of perceived control (primary vs. secondary and central vs. consequence-related) were examined in Myanmar sample of 148 HIV-positive men and women. According to the results, two hypotheses regarding the use of primary control (acting to achieve specific outcomes) and secondary control (acceptance) were supported. The use of both primary and secondary control was associated with better adjustment. Secondary control served a proactive role at lower levels of primary control. The 2 hypotheses regarding central control (over the infection) and consequence-related control (over consequences of the infection) were also supported. Perceptions of consequence related control were higher than perceptions of control over HIV and more strongly associated with less depression.