Intentional HIV Contraction: Implications for Direct Child and Youth Care

ABSTRACT

When we think of suicide we do not usually think of someone knowingly and willingly contracting HIV. This paper recommends expanding our consideration of suicide to include intentional contraction of HIV. Reviewing the current evidence of this phenomenon and considering the complex reasons for intentional infection, recommendations for the implementation of a suicide assessment and elimination of those practices which are viewed as rewarding youth who are HIV positive are made to better assist the on-line child and youth care practitioner in his/her assessment and intervention regarding suicide for youth in care.