Pediatric AIDS/HIV Infection: An Emerging Challenge to Pediatric Psychology

Abstract

The number of pediatric AIDS cases are increasing. This disease, with its social and political ramifications, as well as its biological consequences, presents a number of unique issues for psychologists. Some of the areas that present opportunities and problems for psychologists are briefly identified. These areas include prevention, clinical issues, public education, research, neu-ropsychological effects, psychoneuroimmunological issues, and ethical concerns. Current epidemiological projections and future directions for research are also discussed.