Introduction: This study examined the mechanisms through which family support affects self-reported adherence to antiretroviral therapy among adolescents perinatally infected with HIV in Uganda.
Methods: Longitudinal data from 702 adolescent boys and girls (10-16 years) were analyzed. Structural equation models were conducted to assess the direct, indirect, and total effects of family support on adherence.
Results: Results showed a significant indirect effect of family support on adherence (β = .112, 95% confidence interval [CI]: 0.052-0.173, p < .001). Specific indirect effects of family support through saving attitudes (β = .058, 95% CI: 0.008-0.108, p = .024), and communication with the guardian (β = .056, 95% CI: 0.012-0.100), p = .013), as well as the total effect of family support on adherence (β = .146 (95% CI: 0.032-0.259, p = .012), were statistically significant. Mediation contributed 76.7% of the total effects.
Conclusion: Findings support strategies to help promote family support and strengthen open communication between adolescents living with HIV and their caregivers.
Trial registration: ClinicalTrials.gov NCT01790373.
Keywords: HIV; adolescents; child-caregiver communication; family support; self-reported adherence; social support.
© 2023 Foundation for Professionals in Services to Adolescents.