Students and their parental attitudes toward the education of children affected by HIV/AIDS: a cross‐sectional study in AIDS prevalent rural areas, China

Abstract Objective : To investigate the prevalence and determinants of student and parental attitudes toward the education of children affected by HIV/AIDS in areas of rural China where AIDS is prevalent. Methods : A cross‐sectional study of a random sample of students (n=732) and their parents (n=732) conducted in April 2010, using a questionnaire and in‐depth interview. Results : Twenty‐six per cent of students and 29% of parents had a ‘good’ attitude toward the education of children affected by HIV/AIDS. Following adjustment for sociodemographic characteristics, students’ attitudes were significantly associated with knowledge of HIV/AIDS non‐transmission (adjusted odds ratio [aOR]= 3.13) and their parents’ attitudes (aOR= 2.38), but not with knowledge of HIV/AIDS transmission, prevention or their parents’ knowledge. Parents’ attitudes were significantly associated with knowledge of HIV/AIDS non‐transmission (aOR= 2.12) and their children's attitudes (aOR= 2.52), but not with knowledge of HIV/AIDS transmission, prevention or their children's knowledge. Conclusion : Stigma and discrimination undermine the right to education of HIV/AIDS‐affected children in rural China. Improving non‐transmission knowledge may improve caring attitudes. Implications : HIV/AIDS public health educational campaigns highlighting non‐transmission and extending family education, combined with school education, may help to enhance an environment of non‐discrimination and safeguard public support programs for the right to education of children affected by HIV/AIDS