Is this 'coping'? Survival strategies of orphans, vulnerable children and young people in Zimbabwe

An in-depth study of the coping strategies of orphans and other vulnerable children (OVC) affected by HIV and AIDS was conducted across six sites in rural and urban Zimbabwe. Qualitative methods including case studies and in-depth interviews were used to examine the daily lives and coping strategies of children and their families. Data were gathered primarily from children and young people, but also from adults in families and communities. The research identified considerable hardship for most interviewees as a result of HIV and AIDS combined with the harsh economic climate in Zimbabwe. A range of both positive and negative coping strategies were employed by children and young people in response to the difficulties that they faced. Considerable resourcefulness, innovativeness and resilience were observed in relation to securing basic commodities and sustaining households. The extent to which children coped with the emotional and psychosocial impact of HIV and AIDS was more difficult to ascertain, and scant consideration was given to these aspects of their lives by adults in families and communities. The research concludes that HIV/AIDS programming must ascertain the extent to which children cope with both the practical and psychosocial impact of HIV and AIDS, and respond accordingly. This can only be achieved if children living with and affected by HIV and AIDS are engaged more centrally.