Institute of Sociology
of the Federal Center of Theoretical and Applied Sociology
of the Russian Academy of Sciences

Ignatova, T.A. (2026) The Resource Potential of Religion in Sustaining Life Meaning among People Living with HIV. Theory and Practice of Social Development. (2), 60-65. Available from: doi:10.24158 ...



Ignatova, T.A. (2026) The Resource Potential of Religion in Sustaining Life Meaning among People Living with HIV. Theory and Practice of Social Development. (2), 60-65. Available from: doi:10.24158/ti-por.2026.2.7 (In Russian).
ISSN 1815-4964
DOI 10.24158/tipor.2026.2.7
РИНЦ: https://www.elibrary.ru/item.asp?id=89149860

Posted on site: 28.04.26

Текст статьи на сайте журнала URL: https://dom-hors.ru/teoria-praktika/2026/2/7 (дата обращения 28.04.2026)


Abstract

The article examines valueand religion-related aspects of living with HIV and the role of religion as a resource for adaptation. Based on a review of prior research, it shows that spirituality is associated with higher quality of life and lower levels of depression symptoms. The empirical part draws on a survey of 105 NGO clients in Rus-sia (aged 18–54; 95,2% men). While 74,3% identify with a religious denomination, religion ranks low among life priorities (important for 24,8%); family/friends and work are dominant. Religious self-identification is polar-ized (52,4% describe themselves as believers or rather believers). For believers, religion primarily functions as a personal source of psychological support (inner strength, tolerance, hope), whereas communal support and the normative-regulatory function are weaker, pointing to individualized religiosity. The core value profile of believers and non-believers is largely similar, but believers place greater emphasis on familyand child-related values. The findings can inform the design of support programs and contribute to reducing stigma.