International Journal of Caring Sciences 2012 May-August Vol 5 Issue 2 www.inernationaljournalofcaringsciences.org 87 R E V I E W P A P E R Social Dimension and Work with the families of AIDS Patients and Carriers Stefanos Koffas, PhD Frederick University, Department of Social Work, Nicosia – Cyprus Abstract The family constitutes a small social group. Each problem and each experience of one of its members touches the others in the group. Namely, there is a form of constant interaction among the members, which is intensified by internal and external factors. For situations that the family members classify as low in importance, temporary and controlled, their resolution process as well as any cost is manageable. Therefore, reactions are, most of the time, quite limited. What happens though with serious multi-factor impact situations, especially non reversible ones, such as illnesses? What is the reaction of the family members in cases of terminal illnesses, which are also related to the sensitive issue of a person’s sexuality? Every professional in health, welfare and rehabilitation services will face these questions and situations in his direct or indirect involvement with the members of the patient’s family, in his effort to properly accomplish his task. Key Words: AIDS Patients, HIV Carriers, Families, Social Dimension The family’s first reaction to the diagnosis “When a family is informed that one of its members suffers from AIDS all its prejudices arise through panic, defeatism and impasse. The web of prejudice surrounding this negatively charged term derives from the public’s incomplete or poor information and inadequate knowledge about the causes of the illness. Hence, the announcement of the diagnosis to the family gives rise to feelings of chaos and profound disorganisation, both psychological and practical. This is true whether for the father who often bears not only the financial responsibility for the family, but, in his traditional role, imbues the members with confidence and security, or the mother, who may bear her share of financial responsibility, but is also the person that provides equilibrium to the family through her affection, warmth, love and rich sentiment. If the diagnosis concerns a child the situation is even harder. The parents feel guilty about the illness, inadequate in their role and are consumed by feelings of despair and crushing despondency” (Greek Cancer Society, 1991: 87-88). So what happens when a family is informed that one of its members is ill with AIDS? Does a crisis erupt and if so, how is it dealt with? Should it be discussed among its members, but also with professionals or is it a secret that causes shame and should remain within the confines of the household or even between certain members? Which defence- reaction-support-protection mechanisms should it develop towards, but not only, the sick member? What should it know and which actions-behaviours should it avoid? Which are the behaviours that provide assistance-support- relief? These are questions which, at least initially, lead those involved to despair and impasse since they do not know how they will handle them. Even more so they cause erratic or even violent reactions, but also changes in the behaviour and reactions of the family members; if not dealt with, they will not be able to use their strength to effectively help and support the patient along his difficult path of the unequal battle with the illness. The contribution of people such as the medical staff is necessary; but also of helping professions, such as social workers, with specialised scientific knowledge in cases of terminal illnesses, crisis situations and handling of negative behaviours, but more so of systematic approach in the intervention process, whether for treatment or support purposes (Koutsogiannidou, 2001). Family behaviour patterns and professional help In order to properly help the patient’s family along