NCJ Number
122624
Date Published
1989
Length
36 pages
Annotation
New York City, Miami, and Los Angeles have been among the metropolitan areas most affected by pediatric AIDS and have developed programs to provide psychosocial support and educational services to the families in addition to ongoing medical treatment.
Abstract
Program participants took part in a survey that gathered demographic information on project families and children, identified issues that caregivers face, and described the services that each project offered. Findings showed that HIV infection can place major stresses on a family system that is often already fragile. Caregivers experienced anxiety, depression, and grief and had problems in relationships with other family members. The issue of confidentiality was also a major concern. The programs provided social services, counseling, educational services to the parents, developmental and educational services to the children, and community education. Findings showed the need for expanded prevention efforts, efforts targeted to intravenous drug users, program evaluation, research, and long-range planning. Tables and 42 references.