Behavioral and psychological responses to HIV antibody testing Journal Article


Authors: Jacobsen, P. B.; Perry, S. W.; Hirsch, D. A.
Article Title: Behavioral and psychological responses to HIV antibody testing
Abstract: The development of tests to identify the antibody to human immunodeficiency virus (HIV) has made it possible to diagnose infection with the virus prior to the development of physical symptoms. The introduction of these tests raises questions regarding the effects of informing individuals of their antibody status. These issues include the emotional impact of telling individuals that they have been infected with a fatal virus and the usefulness of antibody testing in promoting behaviors that would reduce the spread of acquired immunodeficiency syndrome (AIDS). Research that has examined changes in psychological distress and in behaviors associated with HIV infection among individuals who have undergone antibody testing is reviewed. Methodological issues encountered in studying behavioral and psychological responses to antibody testing are identified, and directions for future research are offered.
Keywords: adult; clinical article; review; risk factors; psychological aspect; laboratory test; emotion; behavior; human immunodeficiency virus; antibody; hiv infections; stress, psychological; hiv antibodies; human; support, u.s. gov't, p.h.s.; sex behavior
Journal Title: Journal of Consulting and Clinical Psychology
Volume: 58
Issue: 1
ISSN: 0022-006X
Publisher: American Psychological Association  
Date Published: 1990-02-01
Start Page: 31
End Page: 37
Language: English
DOI: 10.1037/0022-006x.58.1.31
PUBMED: 2181002
PROVIDER: scopus
DOI/URL:
Notes: Article -- Export Date: 27 January 2020 -- Source: Scopus
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