Public Opinion Concerning Group Involvement for Children with AIDS

Increased public awareness of AIDS has created fears of the risk of transmission by casual contact. This is especially true when the issue is HIV‐infected children. The current project collected data from 460 residents in southern United States on their attitude toward HIV‐infected children attending daycare, schools, and/or camp. Fifty‐five percent (55%) of the respondents self‐rated their overall knowledge of AIDS as high. Forty‐nine percent (49%) felt that doctors should allow asymptomatic HIV‐infected children to attend group activities. Most felt that administrators and teachers should be informed of a child's status. Individuals with only high school education and those residing in a rural setting were more likely to state that all parents and children should be informed. The public's fear of AIDS and subsequent discrimination make care and support of HIV‐infected children and families an increasing problem worldwide. This study provides support for disseminating accurate knowledge to help diminish irrational fears about pediatric AIDS.