| Notes/Abstract | The children’s support group is designed to help children cope with the emotional issues involved when a parent has HIV or AIDS. The aim is to assist children first in coping, second in protecting themselves and others from becoming positive, and third, to bringing their insight to advocacy work to fight for social change. Through their participation in the group, children obtain a forum in which to articulate their experiences, to reduce isolation through participation, to enhance self-esteem, and to identify options.
The curriculum is a series of independent units that work together as a whole. If a child can only attend one session or attends intermittently, there is still much benefit to be gained. The design is for children aged 7-10; however, many units can be adapted for children of varying ages. In addition, some units are only suitable for adolescents. The sessions are 90 minutes in length, but this may also be varied according to need by shortening some segments. The format is very flexible in order to meet the needs of families with multiple problems, including parental illness. While the group is based on an American setting, it can be easily replicated for use worldwide. Suggestions for such cultural adaptation are included in certain units. In addition, while materials are suggested for each unit, the curriculum can be implemented with very few resources, making it ideal for use in rural areas or developing countries. The curriculum can also be easily adapted for use with other populations at risk.
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