Perceived Social Support of HIV/AIDS Orphans

The present study examined the group and gender deference in Perceived social support (PSS) on a sample of HIV/AIDS orphans and non- HIV/AIDS orphans. The sample of the study consisted of 236 orphans (116 HIV/AIDS orphans and 120 non- HIV/AIDS orphans) the mean age of HIV/AIDS orphans, 11.66 years and mean age of non-HIV/AIDS orphans, 11.78 years living in the north Indian orphanages. The tools employed for present study is PSS scale for children consisting of 30 items and comprising of three subscales assessing the source of the emotional support (i.e., family, friends, or teacher). Result related to MANOVA indicates that significant group difference (F=2.66, p<0.05) and significant gender difference (F=2.66, p<0.05) was found in HIV/AIDS orphans and non-HIV/AIDS orphans on perceived social support. The present research explored low PSS of HIV/AIDS orphans living in Indian orphanages. PSS plays a protective role in dealing with psychosocial outcomes of HIV/AIDS orphans. Strong perception of support from cares, siblings, school teachers, school principal, friends, and others may reduce the deleterious effects of exposure to illness and psychological problems.