The Process of Social Interactions in Patients With Hepatitis B Infection: A Grounded Theory Study

Background: The hepatitis B virus infection is a major cause of liver diseases in the world. It mostly affects psychological and social aspects as well as the mental health of patients. The aim of this study was to explain the process of social interactions in patients with Hepatitis B Virus (HBV) infection.  Methods: The present study was conducted using the grounded theory method from 2014 to 2016 in the Amol, Babol, and Tabriz health and counseling centers. The data was collected using in-depth semi-structured interviews and field notes in order to answer this question: “How does the process of social interaction occur in HBV carriers?” The participants included 18 HBV carriers, 2 spouses of the HBV carries and 2 physicians. Data analysis was conducted using Corbin and Strauss (2008). Results: According to the data analysis, “maintenance of normal social interactions” after diagnosis of the disease is a major concern of the carriers. In order to resolve this concern, they employed some strategies, including disease concealment, protecting themselves and others, and reconciliation with the disease. Conclusion: Following the diagnosis of hepatitis B infection, maintaining normal social interactions is considered as one of the major anxieties of the carriers. Health care teams could help them with their social interactions using the findings.