“It’s because they care”: Understanding pathways to classroom concentration problems among HIV-affected children and youth in Western Kenya

For children affected by HIV, having an education can be an important source of hope for a future that is stable and secure. This study presents findings related to how familial HIV, poverty and internalizing problems effect children and adolescents’ ability to concentrate at school. The following three themes were identified: (1) lack of care which leaves children and younth feeling lethargic and anxious; (2) caregiving which leaves children and youth feeling exhausted; and (3) caring about household members preoccupies their minds. These results highlight the need for comprehensive social protection programs that address a range of issues including parenting support and children’s educational needs.