A Photovoice Project with HIV/AIDS Orphaned Children: A Focus on Risk and Resilience

We conducted a qualitative participatory research study to explore the the lived experiences of early adolescents orphaned by HIV/AIDS and seek to identify the different factors that contribute to resilience at the individual, family or home and larger community levels. Photovoice was used as a participatory method to enhance storytelling with children between 12 and 14 years (n = 6 girls; n = 4 boys). Children in this study revealed Similar to previous research the data gathered from these children show that has also established that individual assets, family support, positive peer and teacher support, and community-based psychosocial support programs all mutually strengthens the resilience of AIDS orphans. Given the need for more research on resilience and protective factors among children affected by HIV/AIDS, this article provided valuable insights on some of the protective factors that contribute to children’s resilience. Moreover, the well-being of children affected by HIV/AIDS is a global concern and the findings from this study can serve as a potential foundation for informed, ethical and developmentally appropriate interventions that will promote resilience among children.