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The Role of Families Among Orphans and Vulnerable Children in Confronting HIV/AIDS in Sub-Saharan Africa

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Family and HIV/AIDS

Abstract

This chapter provides an overview of the impact of the HIV/AIDS epidemic on vulnerable children and families in sub-Saharan Africa. There is a discussion of the terms used to describe HIV-affected vulnerable children. As a result of the generalized epidemic and widespread poverty, many children and families are in need of services. This chapter covers the research on the impact of HIV/AIDS on children and their families in four key areas: (1) care arrangements, (2) educational opportunities, (3) mental health, and (4) HIV risk behaviors. This is followed by a review of the emerging literature on services and programs. The chapter concludes with a discussion of the shortcomings of the research and what has been learned from the studies and programs to date.

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  1. Center for Mental Health Research on AIDS, National Institute of Mental Health, Bethesda, Maryland, USA

    Susannah Allison

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  1. National Institute of Mental Health, Executive Blvd. 6001, Bethesda, 20892-9641, Maryland, USA

    Willo Pequegnat

  2. Community Mental Health Council, Inc., S. Constance Ave. 8704, Chicago, 60617, Illinois, USA

    Carl C. Bell

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Allison, S. (2012). The Role of Families Among Orphans and Vulnerable Children in Confronting HIV/AIDS in Sub-Saharan Africa. In: Pequegnat, W., Bell, C. (eds) Family and HIV/AIDS. Springer, New York, NY. https://doi.org/10.1007/978-1-4614-0439-2_8

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