Family Systems and HIV/AIDS in South Africa

Abstract

This study examines the role of family in the care and support of people living with HIV/AIDS (PLWHA) as a way of reducing the burden of stigma in the family. The PEN-3 model provided the cultural framework for this study. Data were drawn from participants' responses in 27 focus groups interviews conducted in South Africa. Participants were asked to discuss experiences of people living with HIV and AIDS in the family. The results highlight the positive and supportive aspects of the family, acknowledge the existential and unique aspects, and discuss the negative experiences shared by participants. This study's findings stress the need to take into account families' experiences with HIV and AIDS in the development of interventions aimed at reducing the burden of the disease on family systems and improving care and support for PLWHA.