The incorporation of human immune deficiency virus/acquired immune deficiency syndrome (HIV/AIDS) into identity over time was examined by collecting data from the same 11 HIV-positive individuals at 3 points in time (in 1995, early 1998, and late 1999). By the time of their semi-structured interviews in late 1999, the seven men and four women interviewed had been HIV-positive for between 7 and 16 years. An analysis of the nature of the learning reported by the study participants revealed the existence of a six-point incorporation process that included the following stages: (1) diagnosis (the beginning of incorporation of HIV/AIDS into identity and often included shock, fear, denial, and relief); (2) a post-diagnosis turning point (that was often referred to as a "catalytic experience" and involved social interaction; (3) immersion (during which participants actively participated in the HIV/AIDS community); (4) a post-immersion turning point (which caused a reevaluation of priorities); (5) integration (a stage that was marked by HIV/AIDS identity decentralization; and (6) a disclosure process (a process that progressed from disclosure to significant others only to public disclosures followed by situational disclosures on a need-to-know basis). This process of incorporation was transformational and also included increased appreciation for the human condition and an expanded view of intimacy. (Contains 12 references.) (MN)