PERCEPTION AND MEANING OF A WOMAN LIVING WITH HIV, SAN SALVADOR, EL SALVADOR

Abstract

Social stigma and discrimination are just two of the effects produced as a result of the damage to health caused by infection with the human immunodeficiency virus (HIV). The key person in this research, Julissa, is a 46-year-old woman from the municipality of Ilopango, El Salvador, who was diagnosed with HIV eleven years ago. The sociocultural construction of the experience of living with HIV in women was analyzed, examining the psychosocial, symbolic, and relational factors that shape this experience. Symbolic interactionism was adopted as the theoretical-methodological framework, prioritizing the study of social interactions mediated by symbolic systems (meanings, roles, and shared narratives). This approach allowed us to interpret the discursive and behavioral practices of the participant (Julissa) as products of symbolic negotiations, as well as to examine the influence of her contextual support networks: family environment (spouse), patient association, and interpersonal bond (Luciana). Under the qualitative paradigm, the subjective dimensions of the experience were reconstructed through the situated analysis of socialization environments and the identification of patterns of symbolic interaction in microcontexts. Among the key findings, the strong support and understanding provided by her husband stand out. In Julissa's case, a phenomenon of self-stigmatization can be observed: the fear of discrimination due to her psychological condition, leading her to refrain from informing both her daughter and other family members about her diagnosis. This situation highlights the urgent need for psychological intervention to address possible emotional repercussions.