Living in an Age of HIV and AIDS: Implications for Families in South Africa

Abstract

South Africa has one of the highest HIV prevalence rates in the world. It is understandable, therefore, that the HIV and AIDS pandemic is considered one of the most important factors that has been impacting social integration in general and family life in particular in South Africa during the past decade. In the attempt to assess what the impact of HIV and AIDS is on family life in South Africa, the focus falls in this article on three issues: (a) The impact on the family and household structure. (b) The impact on the socio-economic and emotional dimensions of family life. (c) The strategies employed by individuals and families in trying to cope with HIV and AIDS related challenges. The discussion is based on the findings of three qualitative studies that aimed to shed light on the perceptions and experiences of both HIV positive persons themselves and those living with an HIV positive family member.