"The emotional well-being, social adjustment and coping strategies of orphans and vulnerable children affected by HIV/AIDS."
Date
2009-01-27T09:01:08Z
Authors
Lumbi, Patricia C.
Journal Title
Journal ISSN
Volume Title
Publisher
Abstract
This study looked at how children who are exposed to the impact of HIV/AIDS in their
immediate families are affected and what coping strategies they employ. Research was
conducted in Lusaka, Zambia, involving eight female and eight male Zambian children between
the ages of thirteen and sixteen, as research participants. Separate gender specific focus group
discussions were held, after which the recorded proceedings were transcribed and analysed using
thematic content analysis. The study found that children experience socioeconomic difficulties,
psychosocial deprivations, and insecurity as a result of parental death or illness. However, they
are still able to find ways to survive and cope with their difficulties. State and private sector
efforts have focussed primarily on addressing the socioeconomic needs of these children as this
has been understood to be the most critical. The psychological impact of HIV/AIDS on children
in Zambia, and the resultant needs that arise, will need to be tackled as a matter of priority.
Description
Keywords
Children of AIDS patients, Orphans, Emotional well-being, Social adjustment, Coping strategies