Experiences of Chinese Families Affected by AIDS via Blood Transfusion: An Exploratory Case Study

Abstract

Little research exists that explores families with HIV/AIDS. The purpose of this exploratory multiple case study is to explore the experiences of five Chinese families affected by AIDS contracted during blood transfusions. Longitudinal qualitative data were collected from five families with a member who had contracted HIV from blood received during a medical procedure. Six themes emerged that represented the six stages experienced by our strong families: reeling in disbelief, placing blame, turning to acceptance, searching for help, finding meaning, and becoming a helping group. Findings resulted in a model that reveals the critical turning point that put our families onto a trajectory of either positive or negative outcomes. The model also identifies the point at which a transformation took place in our strong families - finding meaning and a sense of inner peace which led to outward expressions of becoming a helping group. This study has implications for social workers and advocates of strengthening families affected by HIV/AIDS.