[Comparison of sensation seeking between HIV positive patients and normal individuals]

ABSTRACT

Tendency to experience extreme sensation can lead to risky behavior. The purpose of this study was to compare sensation seeking between HIV positive patients and normal individuals. In a causal comparative study, 50 HIV positive patients among HIV positive patients of Tabriz health center was selected and matched with 50 normal people. The data were collected using a demographic questionnaire and Zuckerman sensation seeking scale [SSS]. Statistical analysis was performed using SPSS software and t-test was utilized to compare between groups. The average sensation seeking [sensation seeking, experience seeking, adventure seeking and diversity seeking] as well as the total scale among AIDS patients was statistically higher than normal peoples [P<0.05]. No statistically significant difference was found in boredom susceptibility and disinhibition between positive HIV patient and normal people. According to this preliminary study, because of higher sensation seeking in HIV positive patients, they are susceptible to risky behavior and HIV infection. More complementary studies are needed to identify different aspects of sensation seeking and methods of effective intervention