Investigating psychosocial problems of orphan children in primary schools

Solomon Kassie Alem

doi:10.33902/jpr.2020058810

Abstract

The purpose of this study was to investigate the psychosocial problems of orphan children in public primary schools. The study is based on a mixed-type research design focusing on both quantitative and qualitative research approaches. A total of 73 participants were involved in the study. Fifty-five orphaned students who were participated in filling the questionnaires were selected using simple random sampling technique while six orphaned children, nine teachers and three non-governmental officials were participated in the interview were selected through purposive sampling technique. To analyze the data descriptive statistics, mean score and standard deviation was calculated to determine the psychosocial problems of orphan children. One sample t-test also computed to see whether there was statistical significance different between the expected and actual mean scores at the t-value on the psychosocial problems of orphan children. Data collected through interview was presented and analyzed thematically. The results revealed that orphan children were exposed to diverse psychological problems, economical, social related problems and exhibited in problematic behaviors that tremendously affect their education and life in general. Considering the results, it was recommended that stakeholders, teachers and caregivers should establish a support system at different levels and play a major role to fulfill the psychosocial needs of orphan children.

Highlights

According to the report of UNICEF (2017) there are nearly 140 million orphan children worldwide who have lost one or both parents
The result revealed that orphan children were exposed to diverse psychological problems that tremendously affect their education and life in general
This indicates that the orphan children are seeking the support of others to reconstruct their psychological health

Summary

Introduction

According to the report of UNICEF (2017) there are nearly 140 million orphan children worldwide who have lost one or both parents. Reports from Save the Children UK (2009), within Ethiopia 5.5 million children, around 6% of the total population and 12% of the child population, are categorized as orphans or vulnerable children (OVC); of which over 83% of OVCs are living in rural settings and, of these, 855, 720 are children orphaned as a result of the death of one or both parents due to HIV/AIDS (Save the Children UK, 2009). Ethiopia counts one of the largest populations of orphan and vulnerable children in the world (Zewdineh, 2008). Every child requires basic needs to develop and grow to a healthy and responsible adult (UNICEF, 2016). A child requires parental love, care and protection in the early stages of development. Orphans were negatively impacted when they perceived a lack of caring, when they received inferior treatment compared with the caregivers‟ biological children (Ansell & Young, 2004)

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Conclusion