"I created something new with something that had died": Photo-narratives of positive transformation among women with HIV

A dearth of research describes the strengths of women living with HIV (WLH), yet understanding these strengths can promote women’s well-being and healthy behavior. This analysis explores positive life transformations among WLH through photo-stories. WLH (N = 30) from three U.S. cities participated in a pilot photovoice project to tell their story of HIV. The project included three group meetings, an individual interview, and a public exhibit. Using qualitative strategies of theme and narrative analysis we identified positive transformations in women’s photo-stories. Participants were African American (83 %) and low income (83 %). Women described four major positive transitions in their lives including transformations related to healthfulness, spirituality, self-acceptance, and confidence. Despite challenges, WLH experience positive transformation and growth experiences. Understanding these transformative changes can shed light on women’s motivation to make healthy life changes and thus frame strengths-based interventions for WLH. Photovoice itself is a potential strategy to promote WLH’s strengths and health.