| A great number of deaths and resulting orphans evidence the path of an epidemic. This case study analyzed the psychological effects that the secrecy of a father's HIV/pos/AIDS diagnosis has on his son.;The literature reviewed reports that a child of a parent with a positive HIV/AIDS diagnosis can present indicators of depression, anxiety, low self-esteem, social isolation, academic problems, feelings of abandonment and rejection, somatic problems and sleeping difficulties. All these are evident in this child. The death of a parent by itself is considered a traumatic event that will sensitize the child to other losses as observed in this case.;In this case study the psychotherapy process and psychiatric treatment have been traced and analyzed.;The psychotherapy process during these years evidences the persistence of the symptoms and a contingency with the continuity of the secrecy of HIV positive HIV/AIDS diagnosis in other nuclear family members. The child was diagnosed with a depressive disorder and medication with psychotherapy from part of his treatment plan. Failing this academic year has also added to his mental health history.;Parents' decisions about this issue has a strong and long-term effect on their children's life. To keep their positive HIV/AIDS diagnosis in secrecy from their children, disregarding their age, maturity and emotional needs even during the last days of life or after death, can be devastating. This contradicts expectations of fulfilling their roles as protective parents.;Professionals, parents, AIDS-epidemic orphans and their caring foster families can benefit from case studies. Helping parents before, during and after making decisions about their secrecy or disclosure of a terminal illness to their children can be a challenge as well as a professional sense of commitment and service, as a result. (Abstract shortened by UMI.). |
