The effect of group counselling on the psychological adjustment of people living with hiv/aids in nigeria

Project Abstract

This research study aimed to investigate the effect of group counseling on the psychological adjustment of people living with HIV/AIDS in Nigeria. The prevalence of HIV/AIDS in Nigeria is a significant public health concern, and individuals living with this condition often face various psychosocial challenges that can impact their psychological well-being. Group counseling has been identified as a promising intervention for addressing the psychological needs of this population. The study utilized a pre-test post-test control group design to assess the impact of group counseling on the psychological adjustment of individuals living with HIV/AIDS. Participants were recruited from healthcare facilities and support groups in Nigeria. The intervention group received group counseling sessions focused on coping strategies, emotional regulation, social support, and stigma reduction, while the control group received standard care. Quantitative measures, including standardized psychological adjustment scales, were administered before and after the intervention to assess changes in psychological well-being. Qualitative data were also collected through interviews to provide a more in-depth understanding of the participants' experiences with group counseling. The results indicated that group counseling had a significant positive effect on the psychological adjustment of people living with HIV/AIDS in Nigeria. Participants in the intervention group showed improvements in coping skills, emotional regulation, and social support, as well as reductions in stigma-related distress compared to the control group. The qualitative data supported these findings, highlighting the benefits of group counseling in providing a supportive and non-judgmental space for individuals to share their experiences and receive guidance from peers. These findings have important implications for the provision of psychosocial support services for individuals living with HIV/AIDS in Nigeria. Group counseling can be an effective and culturally appropriate intervention for addressing the psychological needs of this population, enhancing their overall well-being and quality of life. Further research is needed to explore the long-term effects of group counseling and to identify strategies for implementing and sustaining group counseling programs in healthcare settings in Nigeria.

Project Overview