The experiences, challenges and coping resources of AIDS-orphans heading households in an urban area in the Free State

摘要

HIV and AIDS related deaths have left numerous children heading households as thenumber of adults dying from this pandemic increased significantly. The goal of thisstudy was to gain an in-depth understanding of the experiences, challenges and copingresources of AIDS-orphans heading households in an urban area in Free State using aqualitative study. The research revealed that the level of suffering faced by thesechildren began with their parents’ illness. This was further worsened by the death ofthe parents. These children are in most instances not absorbed by their extendedfamilies as the traditional safety nets are stretched to their limits. Children headinghouseholds were forced to take up adult responsibilities prematurely and as suchencounter challenges on daily basis. The study concluded that the child headedfamilies are a reality in South Africa and need lots of support from the government and local communities.