Drawing on in-depth interviews with 22 adoptive caregivers, the research highlights that, while HIV is now a manageable medical condition thanks to effective antiretroviral treatment, families often grapple with significant psychological and social challenges.
Watts-Thompson Professor and Professor of Public Health Cynthia Fair and alumna Arianna Wolgin ’22 recently published a study in “Child & Youth Services” that explores the experiences of North American adoptive parents raising children living with perinatally acquired HIV (PHIV).
Titled “A Qualitative Study of Parent-Reported Biopsychosocial Challenges Among North American Families with Adopted Children Living with Perinatally-Acquired HIV,” the article applies a biopsychosocial framework to better understand the complex realities these families face. Drawing on in-depth interviews with 22 adoptive caregivers, the research highlights that, while HIV is now a manageable medical condition thanks to effective antiretroviral treatment, families often grapple with significant psychological and social challenges.
Among the most pressing issues were early childhood trauma, racial discrimination and HIV-related stigma. Parents reported difficulties navigating disclosure in schools and communities, particularly when trying to advocate for their children without compromising their privacy. Many participants also emphasized the need for trauma-informed care and increased cultural sensitivity among healthcare and educational professionals.
“Parents described a reality in which HIV wasn’t the biggest challenge—it was the surrounding stigma, racism, and the long-term effects of trauma,” said Fair. “This research calls for holistic support systems that reflect the lived experiences of adoptive families.”
The study was supported by Elon College Fellows and Undergraduate Research Programs. Wolgin, who plans to attend law school in the fall, served as a co-author on the project.