Manuel Lancara Professor; Jose MendezM00299933 Nursing Research

QUESTIONS AND HYPOTHESES

1 The research problem is “Defensive Mothering in HIV-Positive Mothers” clearly states what phenomenon the authors studied in their research. The phenomenon of women who are both HIV-Positive and are mothers is researched to see if there are any similarities among the women. The problem statement builds a cogent and persuasive argument for the study. The abstract of the study clearly summarizes the main features of the report, and it seems to follow the IMRAD format.

2 The problem have significance for nursing because by having this sort of information, health professionals can combat isolation by providing support and education on how to prevent, and what to expect of mothers to be with HIV. The mothers need to know that their concerns are common for women in their circumstances. It is suggested that the theory of defensive mothering be used to assess women in this situation, and also as the basis for clinical interventions.

3 There is a good fit between the research problem and the paradigm. The authors used the grounded theory method to analyze the data collected. Users of this theory try to understand how people “define their reality, and how they act in relation to their beliefs and realities.”

4 The report formally presents a statement of purpose, On page 493, the authors clearly states the purpose of the study “was to add to the literature by providing as explanatory schema that illuminates the experience of mothers living with HIV infection.” This information is communicated clearly, concisely and it is placed in a logical and useful location as well as generating substantive theory about the experiences of HIV mothers.

5 Purpose statements and questions wore worded appropriately and key concepts was identified for example: To explain key concept of ‘defensive’ , the word “is defined in the Oxford American Dictionary as “used or done for defense; in an attitude of defense; ready to defend oneself against criticism.” Variables were easy identifiable because of the comparison between mothers with HIV and mothers without the virus. The research tradition was observed in the report, APA style was noticed. However, it is mentioned by the author that “little research or theory exist about the psychosocial aspect of mothering when HIV positive.

6 The absence of hypothesis is justifiable due to the nature of the research itself. Statistical test wore not used to analyze the data. The constant comparative method was used, between mothers with HIV and mothers not infected with the virus. Although, the data analysis used a theory method using as references: Alonzo,A, & Raynolds N (1995). Stigma, HIV, and AIDS: An exploration and elaboration of a stigma trajectory. Social Science & Medicine, 41(3), 303-315. Amongst others.

7 N/A - * As there was no hypotheses, the study conducted may or may not be inconclusive.

Manuel Lancara Professor; Jose MendezM00299933 Nursing Research

8 N/A- * see above.