Faculty Articles

Title

Active coping style is associated with natural killer cell cytotoxicity in asymptomatic HIV-1 seropositive homosexual men

ISBN or ISSN

0022-3999

Publication Title

Journal of Psychosomatic Research

Volume

36

Issue

7

Publication Date / Copyright Date

10-1-1992

First Page

635

Last Page

650

DOI Number

10.1016/0022-3999(92)90053-5

Abstract

The aim of this study was to examine the hypothesis that a psychosocial model was associated with natural killer cell cytotoxicity (NKCC) in HIV-1 infection. A sample of 62 HIV-1 seropositive homosexual men at CDC stages II and III were given a psychosocial battery assessing life stressors, social support, and coping style. A regression model quantifying these variables along with control variables for alcohol use, substance use and nutritional status was estimated. Active coping style was directly and positively associated with NKCC, and trends toward a negative relationship of life stressors and a buffering effect of social support on lifes stressors were also observed. The results suggest that (1) control variables should be included with psychosocial models and that (2) psychosocial factors, especially active coping, may have a deterrent effect on loss ofNK cell function. Active coping style may merit a specific focus in future research of life stressors and the immune system.

Disciplines

Medical Specialties | Medicine and Health Sciences | Osteopathic Medicine and Osteopathy

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