“I Would Do HIV Adoption 100 Times Over Again”: An Exploratory Study on Families With Internationally Adopted Children With PHIV

ABSTRACT

Internationally adopted children with perinatally acquired HIV (PHIV) are an emerging population in the United States. One key informant and nine mothers of internationally adopted children with PHIV were interviewed about the adoption process, HIV disclosure, and family needs. Qualitative analyses of transcribed interviews revealed that faith played a pivotal role in pursuing “HIV adoption.” Many participants expressed initial fear about adopting a child with PHIV, but gained confidence through education on transmission risks and the improved lifespan of children with PHIV. Participants reported few HIV-related challenges. Many actively promoted the international adoption of children with PHIV and used disclosure as a tool for education.

KEYWORDS:

• Special needs adoption
• perinatally acquired HIV
• international adoption

Acknowledgements

The authors would like to express their deep gratitude to the parents who shared their stories with them.

Funding

We would like to thank Elon University's Undergraduate Research Program and Public Health Studies for providing funding.