Psychological impacts of orphanhood in Southwest Ethiopia

Abstract

BackgroundChildren who have lost their parents are especially susceptible because they lack the mental and physical maturity to handle the emotional distress that comes with parental loss. This study aimed to assess the psychological effects of orphanhood in southwest Ethiopia. MethodsWe conducted a cross-sectional survey in southwest Ethiopia from January 1, 2019, to March 30, 2019. Orphan students who attended primary school at regular programs and those who live at orphanage centers were included. The study ecluded those orphans, who were adopted, not attending education, live in the street, and attending education, but absent at the time of data collection. A simple random sampling technique was employed to select participants. The SPSS version 21 used to entered and analyzed the collected data. Statistical tests such as independent sample t-test and one-way ANOVA were used to compare the mean of depression, anxiety, and stress level of orphan students regarding age, sex, and grade levels. ResultsOf the 322 participants, 176 (54.7%) of the respondents were males. One hundred ninety-two (59.6%) of the participants were aged 14–17 years. Male and female orphans differed significantly in terms of depression, and stress levels (P < 0.05), but not in terms of anxiety levels (p > 0.05). Across age groups and grade levels, there was a significant difference in the aspects of stress, anxiety, and depression (P 0.05). ConclusionGenerally, we can conclude that psychological problems (depression, anxiety, and stress) are common problems among orphans in the study area. Orphans who were grade 5thstudents are less psychologically challenged compared to others. Orphans aged 10–13 years were relatively less psychologically challenged than other age groups. As a result, strengthening connections between the care of orphans and other support groups, including charitable organizations or direct healthcare providers should be taken into consideration.