The purpose of this study was to generate a grounded theory that illuminates the social psychological processes of women who are beginning to change their behavior after repeatedly contracting sexually transmitted diseases. Twelve in-depth interviews with 10 women provided data. Interviews and field notes were analyzed according to the grounded theory method. A substantive theory is proposed that describes the process of women moving from self-abdication to personal sovereignty as they recognize personal risk, piece together the puzzle, shed the veils of illusion, and develop self-protective strategies. Awareness of the importance of personal sovereignty and the necessary progression through its phases can help clinicians provide client focused care aimed to alter women's repetitive, self-destructive, sexual behavior.
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