The Development of an Instrument to Measure Women's Experience of an Aerobic Dance Class

The purpose of the study was to pilot an instrument to measure women's experience in an aerobic dance class with regard to their descriptions of the general atmosphere; the music; the dance moves and routines; and the instructor. In addition; the participants were asked to rate a list of exercise benefits in order of personal importance. A sample of 27 women; ranging in age from 25 to 60 years participated in this pilot study. The women responded with positive endorsements for all aspects of the overall dance experience; but their most affirming descriptions revolved around the instructor. There was an almost unanimous agreement amongst the participants about the importance of the instructor's role in their experience of the class. Their responses to the open ? ended questions supported these sentiments. The mental and physical benefits were rated as important for most of the women whilst a much lower percentage rated the social benefit as important. Two items in the semantic differential posed problems but the instrument showed promise in eliciting key aspects of women's experience in an aerobics dance class

Exploring the Bio-Psychosocial Effects of Renal Replacement Therapy amongst Patients in a State Hospital in South Africa

This article described a qualitative study that investigated the bio-psychosocial effects of renal replacement therapy on patients in a state hospital in South Africa. The study aimed to investigate the level of debility experienced by patients undergoing haemodialysis (HD) and continuous ambulatory peritoneal dialysis (CAPD) and to explore how this debility affects their bio-psychosocial functioning. Respondents comprised a small sample of HD and CAPD patients. Using an interview schedule as the research tool allowed rich data to be uncovered. Content analysis and reducing data into themes facilitated data analysis. Although the study was not quantitative and thus did not allow for comparative analysis; themes regarding the levels of stress emerged amongst participants. The HD group voiced greater concerns regarding the degree of debility and psychosocial distress than the CAPD group. Governmental support for holistic kidney disease treatment and careful teaming of key role players to reduce the severity and far-reaching bio-psychosocial effects of HD and CAPD treatment are recommended

Intimacy and HIV/Aids

This paper addresses intimacy in relationships where HIV/AIDS exists. The authors explore what strengthens and strains relationships and review insights on promoting communication about intimacy. Therapist discomfort and attitudes that prevent effective therapeutic intervention are addressed to allow for the co-existence of HIV/AIDS and intimacy