The segregation of an adolescent in foster care who is HIV seropositive and developmentally disabled.

ABSTRACT

Segregation, based on fear of liability, is being practiced regarding persons with HIV infection. The story is told of 16-year-old Chris, who has mental retardation and a positive blood test for HIV infection. He lost his foster care placement, underwent a lengthy hospital admission, and had a long and complicated process for resolution of his program plans. Also involved were breach of consent, violation of confidentiality, and discrimination. Policy concerns about decision-making in the child welfare system regarding persons with HIV infection were discussed.