The Transtheoretical Model and Stress Management Practices in Women at Risk for, or Infected With, HIV

Abstract

Although scientific inquiry using the Transtheoretical Model of Behavior (TTM) supports various behavior changes in multiple samples, no research was found that examined this model with women already infected with HIV. This article provides a brief overview of the related literature and describes a pilot study that evaluated TTM concepts in women at risk for, or infected with, HIV. The pilot study examined preliminary psychometrics of the research measures in women at risk for (n = 9), or infected with, HIV (n = 10), and examined predicted differences in situational confidence and stress management practices by HIV serostatus (positive vs. negative) and stage of change (precontemplation and contemplation vs. preparation, action, and maintenance) implied by the TTM. This pilot study supports use of the TTM to examine readiness to use stress management behavior in women regardless of their HIV serostatus. Further TTM stress management inquiry is encouraged to extend the knowledge base needed in caring for this vulnerable population.