Table 3 Standardised factor loadings for alternative models of the IIQ

Rejection

 I refuse to see my HIV as part of myself

 I never talk to others about my HIV

 I'd rather not think of my HIV

 I hate being talked to about my HIV

 I just avoid thinking about my HIV

Acceptance

 My HIV simply belongs to me as a person

 My HIV is part of who I am

 I accept being a person with HIV

 I am able to place my HIV in my life

 I have learned to accept the limitations imposed by my HIV

Engulfment

 My HIV dominates my life

 My HIV has a strong impact on how I see myself

 I am preoccupied with my HIV

 My HIV influences all my thoughts and feelings

 My HIV completely consumes me

 It seems as if everything I do, is influenced by my HIV

 My HIV prevents me from doing what I would really like to do

 My HIV limits me in many things that are important to me

Enrichment

 Because of my HIV, I have grown as a person

 Because of my HIV, I know what I want out of life

 Because of my HIV, I have become a stronger person

 Because of my HIV, I realise what is really important in life

 Because of my HIV, I have learned a lot about myself

 Because of my HIV, I have learned to work through problems and not just give up

 Because of my HIV, I have learned to enjoy the moment more