PURPOSE: To examine the non-verbal communication during child care by mothers with the human immune deficiency virus (HIV). METHODS: This study was conducted in the second semester of 2007 in an experimental setting with 5 HIV positive mothers. Data were collected through videotaping during child care such as bathing, clothes changes, feeding, playing, and cuddling. Data analysis focused on the aspects of non-verbal communication. RESULTS: Statistical analysis indicated differences between the mother and the child in all aspects of non-verbal communication during child care. Clothes changes and bathing were the most instrumental child care. Non-verbal communication is used by mothers to show affection and to perceive abnormalities. CONCLUSION: The study's findings suggest the need to encourage mothers to interact with the child during all aspects of child care to promote normal child development.
HIV; Mother-child relations; Nonverbal communication
