“Unmasked to a positive triumph”: Women with HIV share the benefits of showing their faces through photovoice

Abstract

Background: The human immunodeficiency virus (HIV) and AIDS continue to affect the quality of life for minority and low-income women at alarming rates. As a result, research studies that collaborate with women with HIV are increasing with the intent of identifying ways to improve their outcomes. Objectives: This article identifies the effects on women with HIV who chose to show their faces in photographs taken to express their personal experiences. Methods: In multiple community-based participatory research (CBPR) studies, researchers collaborated with participants to identify personal experiences of women with HIV using photovoice. During the data analysis of photographs, discussions, and interviews, the women with HIV shared the importance of showing their faces. This article presents the common themes to explain why some of the women desired to or actually chose to show their faces in the photographs. Results: Of the 35 women with HIV who collaborated, 14 chose to show their self-portraits. Reasons for showing their faces varied and included to express self-pride, to reduce stigma by fighting stereotypes, to get help for their HIV, to help or educate others, and to show progression from sickness to health. The most prominent themes in the analysis were to (1) reveal the “real” face of HIV/AIDS, (2) share self-portraits as an act of resistance, and (3) help other women living with HIV. Conclusions: Photovoice is valuable and beneficial for participants. The women with HIV demonstrated strength and power as they explained reasons for showing their faces and revealing their selfies.

Publication Title

Progress in Community Health Partnerships: Research, Education, and Action

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