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Young people infected with HIV : how counselling can prepare them for a productive life


Document type: mthesis
Download file(s): 185307 (422 KB)
Abstract: INTRODUCTION: Twelve million people under the age of 25 are estimated to live with HIV. Almost two-third of these young people is living in Sub Saharan Africa. How can we as counselors support young people living with HIV (YPLHIV), preparing them for a productive adult life? This thesis explores and analysis the counselling needs of YPLHIV. METHODS: A literature review on published and non-published secondary data from both developed and developing countries. FINDINGS: Through proper support and communication about the HIV diagnosis, there is a possibility to reduce depression, feelings of isolation and risk behaviour, while increasing the possibility of self reliance. The counselors contribution can be of great influence, because they have an ongoing relationship with the adolescent, in which they follow them through all stages of development. Furthermore, counselors have a central position in the clinical management and act as an entry point for many issues, surrounding a YPLHIV needs for treatment and care. A conceptual framework is designed as a tool for counselors to use and to show the relation and interaction between the main areas in the counselling needs of YPLHIV; disclosure, sexual health and adherence. Special awareness must be given to the cross cutting issues like poverty, gender inequity, stigma and violence. They have an impact on all components and are main barriers for good health care. To make the framework useful training of counselors and increased involvement of YPLHIVs are critical in designing better services. Furthermore primary qualitative data from the adolescent perspective and more qualitative and quantitative longitudinal research about the social and epidemiological factors influencing YPLHIV behaviour is needed. In order to do so, I recommend research instruments and operational definitions should offer some uniformity and standardization, and the data presented should be disaggregated by age and sex to make finding results more specific and easier to compare.
Authors: Jong, A.K. de
Category: Research
Department: Development Policy & Practice
Institute: KIT (Royal Tropical Institute)
Keywords: HIV and AIDS , reproductive health , mental health , health services , children , youth
Language: eng
Organization: KIT - Royal Tropical Institute
PAGE: vii, 53
Year: 2008
Right: © 2008 de Jong
Subject: Health and Nutrition
Title: Young people infected with HIV : how counselling can prepare them for a productive life
Training: Master of Public Health / International Course in Health Development (ICHD)