Examining the Relationship Between HIV-Related Stigma and the Health and Wellbeing of Children and Adolescents Living with HIV: A Systematic Review

Abstract

Human immunodeficiency virus (HIV) affects millions of people globally. The associated stigma remains a challenge for individuals living with HIV and children and adolescents face the additional challenge of withstanding the peer, pubertal and identity challenges associated with growing up. The current systematic review aimed to define and explore the major stigma-related challenges of children and adolescents from their own perspectives. A secondary aim was to identify any challenges distinct to childhood and adolescence. Studies included individuals aged 3 to 18 years who were aware of their status. Fifteen studies met inclusion criteria. Narrative synthesis was conducted on the included studies. Five analytic themes emerged describing major stigma-related challenges: disclosure-related anxiety, medication adherence, feelings of abnormality, mental health issues and social exclusion. Disclosure-related anxiety and feelings of abnormality appeared to be largely confined to the experience of children and adolescents. Many of the themes centred around peer influence, highlighting the need to belong in youth. Results suggest that youth require tailored interventions targeting their age-specific challenges.

Lived Experiences of Adolescents with HIV in Rwanda: A Phenomenology Study

“…[27] The participants mainly presented existential crisis, stigma and kept HIV status a secret which were a form of burdens of having HIV. This is supported by a systematic review study of Robinson and colleagues [28] examining the relationship between HIV-related Stigma and the wellbeing of AWH, that revealed strong ties between HIV infection, stigma and disclosure. The AWH reported facing hate and isolation when their HIV status becomes known.…”

Factors associated with voluntary HIV counseling and testing among young students engaging in casual sexual activity: a cross-sectional study from Eastern China

“…With advances in social development and globalization, individuals are more open to and proactive in accepting knowledge and information related to AIDS. Nevertheless, the prevention and control of HIV infection still has many challenges, including social discrimination, lack of resources for HIV/AIDS prevention and treatment, and low treatment adherence [ 23 ]. Therefore, there is a need for the continuous promotion of HIV/AIDS awareness and education, strengthening community cooperation, and government support to improve understanding and awareness of HIV/AIDS prevention.…”

O Estigma Do Hiv/Aids Em Crianças E Adolescentes: Uma Revisão Integrativa

“…Desse modo, pode-se observa que a população infantil e adolescente necessita de intervenções personalizadas que visem os desafios específicos da sua idade (Robinson et al, 2023). No entanto, o estigma é muito forte, pois, uma pesquisa realizada com os cuidadores de adolescentes maiores de 14 anos de idade, mostrou que grande parte das preocupações destes é em relação a vida sexual de seus filhos, em relação ao HIV e seu estigma enraizado.…”