From isolation to action: Selected mothers of gay men with HIV/AIDS create new meaning from their experience

Abstract

The overall objective of this study was to explore the experience of mothers of gay men with HIV/AIDS. Using grounded theory methods, a basic social process (BSP) of Creating New Meaning was discovered. Open-ended interviews were conducted with seven Mothers of eight gay sons with HIV/AIDS. Creating New Meaning, and core category, has three subcategories: (1) Reacting, with the properties of shock, isolation and hovering; (2) Rebuilding, with the properties of coming to terms with homosexuality, learning to live with AIDS finding social support, and forming a new relationship with son; and (3) Taking Action, with the properties of facing stigma, providing care, grieving, and speaking out. Implications derived from the data were that the BSP for these mothers culminates in Taking Action, particularly speaking out to change society's response to AIDS. Nurses may be able to play a role in the changes advocated by these mothers.