Listen, Secrets! Issues and Research by Children Affected by HIV/AIDS

Summary

This is a report on children’s research in two locations in China that are heavily affected by HIV/AIDS. High HIV-prevalence in both areas stems from intravenous drug use, and their proximity to drug production areas in the `Golden Crescent’ and the `Golden Triangle’. These circumstances have tended to result in a focus on issues related to adults, with less attention paid to children hence this research. But children are not a single, stereotypical group, and their circumstances, ideas and issues vary by location as well as age, gender and other aspects of human diversity. This report from children’s research focuses on the main concerns of children in these areas, their definitions of children in difficulties, their difficulties and expectations, and particularly, the impact of HIV/AIDS upon children.