AIDS, Medicine, Social Services & Welfare, Social Sciences 

This book contains information about disclosure (i.e., experiences, reflections, and recommendations) that families infected with or affected by HIV wanted to share with other families who are facing similar challenges. It is not intended for this to be a "how to" book, nor do we suggest that there is any one way to disclose HIV infection to loved ones. We offer this information, without endorsement, so that others starting this journey may learn from the experiences of others. More and more people are learning that they are infected with the human immunodeficiency virus (HIV), the virus that causes AIDS. When they learn they are HIV positive, many are filled with intense emotion and realize that many aspects of their lives are going to change. They will need to closely monitor their health, follow a medical regime, and be conscious of preventing transmission of the virus to others. During this time of change, an immediate and pressing question comes to mind: Who do I tell? The situation is even more complex when children are involved. These children will need to face the reality of either being infected with, or affected by, the virus. How do parents share this news with their children? It is upon this question of disclosure that this book is based. In 1997, the HIV team at the Hospital for Sick Children in Toronto published a study focusing on the psychosocial issues for families in Canada living with HIV. In that study, disclosure to children emerged as an issue of great concern for parents. It was identified as an issue where there was the potential for conflict among family members and between families and professionals. Parents felt strongly that disclosure decisions were their responsibility. Reasons for adult disagreement or conflict over when, and how best, to disclose HIV infection to children have social, psychological, and ideological roots. All adults bring their beliefs, needs, roles, and experiences to the issue. Parents and family members sometimes disagree because of different coping styles or beliefs about children and adult responsibilities. - from Amzon