Test Sample IV

Purpose : To examine the family function as perceived by amphetamine- dependent adolescents in Phrae province. Procedure : The data is obtained by using a questionnaire (consisting of 2 parts : personal data and the Chulalongkorn Family Inventory)

Findings : ( 2 of the followings ) 1.Family function as perceived by amphetamine-dependent adolescents was rated at a quite good level. 2.The six functions, including problem solving, communication; role; affective responsiveness; behavior control; and general functioning were rated at a quite good level, whereas the affective involvement was rated at a fair level.

3.With regard to communication, 21.7% of the sample reported they faced the problems in expressing feeling, while 45.8% reported affective involvement was related to behavioral control by the senior in the family.

Recommendations : ( 1 of the followings ) Nurses should be aware of the significant role of the family in strengthening the family members. The dimensions of affective involvement, problems solving skills and communication skills should by enhanced to empower the family function, which will subsequently result in good mental health of family members.

This research aims to examine spiritual well-being as perceived by persons with HIV/AIDS. The data was collected from nine people with HIV/AIDS, selected from an HIV/AIDS group in Chiangmai from April to October 2001 by means of participant observation and in-depth interviews. The results of the study are that persons with HIV/AIDS describe aspects of spiritual well- being as happiness, peaceful mind, mindfulness, loving kindness and compassion and mental strength.

( Cont. ) The Study also shows that the construction of spiritual will- being involves the incorporation of the teaching of Buddhism and following traditional cultural practices. It is, therefore, recommended that the results should be used for developing nursing care plans to promote spiritual well-being corresponding to the needs of HIV/AIDS patients.