Selective Disclosure: A Pilot Investigation into Changes in Family Relationships Since HIV Diagnosis |
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| Authors: | Cristy Leask,Jonathan Elford,Robert Bor,Riva Miller,& Margaret Johnson |
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| Affiliation: | AIDS Counselling Unit, Royal Free Hampstead NHS Trust Hospital, Pond Street, London NW3 2QE, UK,;Department of Primary Care and Population Sciences, Royal Free Hospital School of Medicine, London, UK,;Psychology Department, City University, London, UK,;AIDS Counselling Unit and Haemophilia Centre, Royal Free Hampstead NHS Trust Hospital, London, UK,;Royal Free Hampstead NHS Trust Hospital and School of Medicine, London, UK |
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| Abstract: | The aim of this research was (1) to determine the impact of HIV infection on the family as experienced by a sample of HIV infected males and females attending a London hospital HIV/AIDS service, and (2) to examine the feasibility of conducting this investigation in a clinical setting. Fifty patients (predominantly gay males and heterosexual females) attending an HIV outpatient clinic were assessed using a self-administered questionnaire covering family relationships and disclosure of HIV. The results showed a similarity for gay males and heterosexual females in the definition of 'close family', yet a difference in the disclosure of HIV status to their family of origin. We conclude that the impact of HIV on the family can be examined in a clinical setting, although the question of validation must be addressed. |
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