Psychosocial Correlates and Coping Strategies Associated With Long-Term Survival of HIV-Infected Children

Children and adolescents with HIV/AIDS are living well beyond life expectancy that was projected for them in the recent past. Little is known about the psychosocial variables that coincide with long-term survival of HIV/AIDS. This longitudinal study examines the psychosocial factors and adaptive coping strategies associated with long-term survival of HIV/AIDS in children and how these factors change over a period of two years. In addition, data is being collected from the primary caretakers on their own psychological well-being as will as their perceptions of their child's adjustment and coping. Participants include children who have been infected (either perinatally or through transfusion) for at least eight years and who were aware of their diagnosis.