HIV/AIDS in View of Bio-Psychosocial Model

Biological

• An aggressive retrovirus that compromises immunity. 
• Important determinants are virus subtype, stage of infection, presence of other STD, patient gender, circumcision.
• Treatment is with antiretroviral drugs

Psychosocial

Kalichman et al. provided evidence that patients with personality disorders are at higher risk of exposure. Similarly, chronically mentally ill, drug abusers, those males who are involved in homosexual practices are also at risk. Determinants of epidemics are multiple partners, single/married, multiple partners, no condom use, drug abuse. The single most common factor in producing negative psychological effects is stigma. The developmental stages of aids are: 

• Stage 1 & 2: shock, denial, anger, guilt
• Stage 3: withdrawn, recognition of stigma
• Stage 4: bargaining, coming out, look for others, altruism
• Stage 5: acceptance.

Treatment

Internal resources: 

• Cognitive reappraisal of the situation
• Realistic perception 
• Strong self-concept, self-esteem, self-control
• A positive view of future

External resources

• Easy access to medical care
• Family, social support
• Therapeutic alliance with the health care team
• Psychotherapeutic and psychopharmacological support
• Protection of confidentiality
• Reduce stigma.

Reference: 

HIV/AIDS in South Africa 25 Years On - Psychosocial Perspectives | Poul Rohleder | Springer