Abstract #91  -  The impact of HIV in mother-child relationships
Authors:   Presenting Author:   Prof Maretha Visser - University of Pretoria
Additional Authors:  Mrs Anastasia ANTONIADES SAVOPOULOS ,
Aim: Children in HIV affected homes were found to have more socio-economic, developmental and psychological problems than children not affected by HIV. Though some research shows that HIV has a negative impact on family relationships, other research indicate that it is the quality of care given to a child that affects the child’s well-being. The aim of the study was to generate a systemic understanding of families affected by HIV/AIDS. The study explored (1) the effect of HIV on family interaction and (2) the effect of a mother-child intervention on family interaction from the perspective of HIV-infected mothers.
Method / Issue: Four HIV-positive mothers with children between the ages of 6 and 10 years old who had participated in an intervention, were interviewed using circular questions (as described by the Milan family therapy team), to gather data.
Results / Comments: HIV+ women perceived HIV to have a disruptive impact on their family relationships, which created tension, secrets and uncertainty within the family. Newly-diagnosed HIV+ mothers often became stuck in their own experiences and distance themselves from their children in order to protect their children from discrimination and the social stigmas related to HIV/AIDS and to shield the child from the pain of losing his/her mother. Because they were grappling with many negative feelings, such as anger and frustration, they resorted to strict disciplinary measures and avoided spending time with their children. The children misinterpreted their mother’s behaviour and reacted in a manner that the mother perceives as disrespectful and disobedient, thus creating a recurring cycle in which both mothers and children became stuck.
Discussion: The results support the importance of interventions bridging the distance that is created by HIV in family relations, particularly between mother and child.
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