Vulnerability of street-involved children and youth in semi-rural Kenya: does orphan status matter?
Abstract
The vulnerability of street-involved children and youth (SICY) in sub-Saharan Africa (SSA) to adverse childhood events is well documented. Associations between orphanhood and multiple types of vulnerability have also been demonstrated. Whether type of orphanhood is associated with adverse events experienced during childhood or is predictive of psychosocial health is still unclear. Maua Methodist Hospital conducted a cross-sectional survey of 53 semi-rural SICY. Multiple indicators of vulnerability, including educational attainment, income, food security, adverse childhood events and psychosocial health (resilience, self-esteem, depression and self-efficacy), were analysed to determine differences between orphan status groups. Though not statistically significant, paternal and double orphans reported several factors that suggested greater vulnerability to adverse experiences and outcomes on the streets. Maternal and double orphans reported significantly more adverse childhood experiences than paternal orphans, suggesting survival of the mother may be a protective factor. Double orphans had significantly higher depression scores than each of the other orphan groups. Within a rescue and rehabilitation program, children who have lost both parents may need extra psychological support and intervention. Paternal and double orphans still living on the street may face greater obstacles to escaping street life and are a high priority for both prevention and intervention programming.
Categories: Psychology Sociology
Other articles
Supporting children in need through a community-based orphan visiting programme
There is an urgent need for programmes to be established to support the growing number of orphans in countries severely…
Read moreMedia portrayal of orphaned and vulnerable children in the context of South African welfare policies
The African National Congress (ANC) came to power in 1994, trumpeting an ambitious Reconstruction and Development Programme…
Read moreThe Experience Of Mental States Of Adolescents Orphans
The article describes the issue of development of mental states of orphaned children being brought up in institutionalized…
Read morePsychological distress among orphaned youth and youth reporting sexual exploitation in Kampala, Uganda
Psychological distress is a priority health issue in low- and middle-income countries; however, it is inadequately addressed…
Read more