Personality correlates of adherence to antiretroviral therapy in HIV infection

Abstract

Ability and willingness by HIV-positive individuals to maintain a high level of adherence with complex antiretroviral treatment is critical to the success of Highly Active Antiretroviral Therapy (HAART).A sample of HIV-positive individuals, accessing antiretroviral therapy from Lothian based services, was assessed in order to determine if associations existed between personality characteristics and level of adherence to treatment regimens. Physiological and self-report measures of adherence were consulted. Personality and coping style were evaluated using standardised assessments. Non-parametric statistical tests were applied during the analysis.Results indicated that there was evidence for an association between level of treatment adherence and two personality styles, two coping styles and two indicators of treatment prognosis.