Reasons given for disclosure of maternal HIV status to children

The purpose of this investigation was to ascertain the reasons given by mot hers diagnosed with AIDS (acquired immunodeficiency syndrome) for disclosin g or not disclosing their HIV (human immunodeficiency virus) status to thei r children, a dilemma faced by most HIV-infected parents and those who coun sel them. We interviewed 29 mothers residing in one of two New York City fa cilities that provide housing and medical treatment for adults with AIDS. T he majority of these mothers do not live with their children, but all had r ecent face-to-face contact with them. The two reasons most frequently consi dered important for disclosing to children were that disclosure was the "ri ght thing to do" and the need to make arrangements for children's future in case of maternal death or incapacity. The reason most frequently considere d important for not disclosing was maternal concern about discussing death and dying with children. These findings have significant implications for c ounseling of HIV-positive parents.